The Gresham Group InsiderOctober 2025

What should homeowners do to prepare their HVAC system for fall and winter?

• Homeowners should schedule a professional inspection and seasonal maintenance of their HVAC system in the fall. This ensures everything is running efficiently before colder weather sets in. It’s also important to replace air filters regularly and make sure all vents and registers are clean and unobstructed to maintain proper airflow throughout the home.

What are the signs that a furnace needs to be serviced or replaced?

• Warning signs that your furnace may need servicing or even replacement include strange or loud noises, uneven or inconsistent heating, a noticeable increase in energy bills, or a unit that’s more than 15 years old. Ignoring these signs can lead to unexpected breakdowns, so it’s best to have a professional assess the system early.

How can homeowners improve energy efficiency as temperatures drop?

• To boost energy efficiency, homeowners can seal gaps around windows and doors to prevent heat loss, install a programmable or smart thermostat to better control heating schedules, and consider having an energy audit done by a professional. These steps can help reduce energy costs and improve overall comfort during the fall and winter.

Are there any common fall HVAC issues homeowners can watch out for?

• Some of the most common HVAC issues in the fall include clogged or dirty filters, malfunctioning thermostats, and pilot light problems in older systems. These issues can lead to poor heating performance or system failure if not addressed early, which is why seasonal maintenance is so important.

Is it okay to close vents in unused rooms during fall/winter?

• While it may seem like a good way to save energy, closing vents in unused rooms can actually disrupt airflow and put added strain on your HVAC system. In some cases, it may be safe to close a limited number of vents, depending on your home’s setup, but it’s always best to consult a professional to ensure proper airflow and avoid unnecessary wear on the system.

Thinking about buying or selling this fall?

Let The Gresham Group guide you through every step—no tricks, just treats.

1. Skipping the Inspection 

It might feel like an easy way to move fast in a competitive market, but skipping an inspection can lead to terrifying surprises down the road. Hidden water damage, structural issues, or outdated electrical work can turn your dream home into a money pit. Always insist on a professional inspection. It’s worth every penny.

2. Not Understanding Your Mortgage Terms 

A mortgage isn’t one-size-fits-all. Choosing a loan without fully understanding the interest rate, fees, or adjustable-rate terms can haunt your budget for years. Work with a trusted lender (we’re happy to connect you!) to make sure you understand every detail. If you’re unsure where to start, feel free to reach out. We can connect you with our preferred lenders who are experienced, reliable, and ready to help.

3. House-Hunting Without Pre-Approval 

Falling in love with a home before knowing what you can actually afford can be a nightmare. Pre-approval sets realistic expectations, shows sellers you’re serious, and positions you to move quickly when the right home comes along.

4. Overlooking Extra Costs 

Your mortgage payment isn’t the only expense you’ll face. Taxes, insurance, HOA fees, maintenance, and utilities can add up fast. Budgeting only for the mortgage can leave you feeling financially “trapped.” Factor in these costs early so nothing jumps out unexpectedly.

5. Letting Emotions Take Over the Process 

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of a house that looks perfect on the surface. But making decisions based on emotions rather than clear financial and lifestyle goals can come back to haunt you. Keep a level head, and lean on your agent for guidance when it’s time to negotiate.

Buying a home should feel exciting, not frightening. With the right preparation and the right team you can move forward with confidence.

Faulkner’s Ranch
10600 Raytown Road
Kansas City, MO 64134

Carolyn’s Pumpkin Patch
17607 N.E. 52nd Street
Liberty, MO 64068

Johnson’s Farms
17701 Holmes Road
Belton, MO 64012

KC Pumpkin Patch
13875 S. Gardner Road
Olathe, KS 66061

Louisburg Cider Mill
14730 K68 Highway
Louisburg, Kansas 66053

Fall is a fantastic season to showcase your home’s unique charm and comfort. With just a few thoughtful updates and seasonal touches, you can create an inviting space that resonates with buyers. If you’re ready to take the next step or have questions about selling your home this season, The Gresham Group is here to guide you every step of the way. 

Boost Curb Appeal

Clear fallen leaves, trim back overgrown bushes, and add seasonal accents like pumpkins or vibrant mums. Clean gutters and walkways to create a neat, welcoming first impression because even bundled-up buyers notice the details!

Warm Up the Interior

Set a cozy tone with fall-scented candles or diffusers, adjust the thermostat to a comfortable temperature, and bring in soft textures like plush throws and pillows. These little touches help buyers imagine themselves relaxing in your home on a chilly day.

Maximize Lighting

With daylight hours shrinking, good lighting is crucial. Clean your windows to let in natural light, open curtains and blinds fully, and use warm, inviting bulbs during showings to brighten every room.

Handle Seasonal Maintenance

Protect your sale by servicing your HVAC, checking windows and doors for drafts, and replacing worn weather stripping. A well-maintained home gives buyers confidence and reduces concerns about costly repairs.

Stage with the Season in Mind

Keep décor warm and inviting with neutral tones and subtle fall accents. Avoid overdoing it! The goal is to let the season enhance your home’s appeal, not overshadow it.

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming. With so many things to consider, it’s easy to get caught up in surface-level details like paint colors, fixtures, and finishes. While aesthetics matter, they’re often the easiest (and least expensive) things to change. What really counts are the features that impact your home’s safety, longevity, and value.

We asked a few of our experienced agents to weigh in on what first-time buyers should truly prioritize during their home search. From structural integrity to location, their insights highlight the most important features to look for, so you can shop smart and invest with confidence.

What are the key features a buyer should look for in a first home?

Josefina Campos

Beyond a home’s cosmetic appeal, buyers should prioritize its major components, the “meat” of the home: the roof, water heater, plumbing, electrical system, and HVAC. For instance, a roof nearing the end of its lifespan or an outdated electrical panel could lead to expensive repairs down the line. Evaluating the age, condition, and maintenance history of these systems helps buyers avoid unexpected costs after closing.

Afton Kateuz

First-time homebuyers should look past cosmetic features and focus on whether the home has good bones. Key elements to consider include a newer roof, updated HVAC system, modernized electrical work, and whether any structural issues have already been addressed.

Kelley Gatlin

This will vary depending on each buyer’s specific needs and preferences. However, one factor that affects all buyers, and is always high on my list, is location. Whether someone is looking for a specific school district, proximity to family, or an easy commute to work, location plays a crucial role in the decision-making process.

Our preferred vendors page is a great place to start with finding quality, local businesses who can help!

The unpredictable seasons can be a roller coaster in Kansas City. One week it’s sunny and mild, and the next we’re facing freezing rain, sleet, or a sudden snowstorm. But, it’s important to prepare your home early because once that first hard freeze hits, it may be too late to address potential problems.

One of the first things should tackle is their outdoor water systems. Shutting off the spigot and draining outdoor hoses helps prevent freezing pipes, which can burst and cause significant water damage. A quick walk around your property to make sure all outdoor faucets are drained and properly closed off is a simple but essential safeguard.

Inside the home, exposed pipes are especially vulnerable to the cold. Adding insulation sleeves or wrapping them with heat tape can make all the difference in preventing a winter plumbing disaster. This is particularly important in basements, crawl spaces, and garages where temperatures tend to dip lower. For more guidance on pipe insulation, the U.S. Department of Energy offers helpful resources.

Another key to winter comfort and efficiency is sealing out drafts. Even the smallest gaps around windows and doors can let in frigid air and drive up your heating bill. Adding weather stripping or caulking around frames is an easy DIY project that pays off immediately. Not only does it improve comfort, but it also reduces energy costs throughout the season. If you’re unsure where to start, Energy Star has tips for identifying and sealing leaks.

In Kansas City, where the weather can shift dramatically overnight, these precautions aren’t just nice-to-haves, they’re necessities. By shutting off and draining outdoor spigots, insulating vulnerable pipes, and tightening up your home’s envelope with weather stripping, you’ll be prepared to face everything from icy blasts to unexpected warm-ups with confidence.

These may sound like small tasks, but together they create a powerful defense against winter’s challenges. And best of all, they help protect both your comfort and your investment.