By Jeanette Nelson, Realtor & SRES® – Orange County Real Estate Expert

While most of the country prepares for chilly weather and falling leaves, fall in Orange County looks a bit different. We still enjoy sunny skies, coastal breezes, and plenty of outdoor time, but homeowners shouldn’t overlook seasonal updates.

Here are some easy, helpful tips to get your home ready and enjoy the fall season in our beautiful community.

1. Refresh Your Outdoor Spaces
Even though we don’t have heavy snow, fall in Orange County is a great time to:

• Power wash patios and decks after summer barbecues.
• Plant fall flowers like chrysanthemums or marigolds for a pop of color.
• Add cozy touches like string lights, fire pits, and outdoor blankets for cooler evenings.

2. Check Your Home’s Comfort Systems
Yes, our winters are mild, but you’ll want your home prepared for cooler nights.

• Inspect your heater or furnace and schedule a quick maintenance check.
• Replace air filters for clean air, especially during Santa Ana wind season.
• Seal drafts around windows and doors to keep warm air inside.

3. Safety First: Fire Prevention
Fall often means more candles, cooking, and cozy fires. Make sure you:

• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Clean out your fireplace or fire pit area.
• Store flammable décor like dried leaves or hay away from open flames.

4. Seasonal Decluttering
Fall is a good time to simplify before the holidays:

• Donate summer clothes you didn’t wear.
• Organize garages and storage spaces before pulling out holiday decorations.
• Shred old paperwork and start fresh before the new year.

5. Enjoy Local Fall Fun
Living in Orange County means fall is not just in your backyard—it’s all around us! Don’t miss:

• Huntington Beach’s Oktoberfest at Old World Village.
• The Irvine Pumpkin Patch or Tanaka Farms Fall Festival.
• Scenic walks at Bolsa Chica Wetlands with crisp autumn breezes.

A Note from Jeanette

Whether you’re thinking about selling your home this season, getting ready for the holidays, or just enjoying coastal fall living, a little seasonal care goes a long way.

As your local Realtor and neighbor, I’m always here with tips, resources, and guidance to keep your home in top shape.

Let’s Stay Connected

Looking for personalized advice on your home this fall or curious about today’s market in Huntington Beach and Orange County? Let’s chat!