The Ultimate November Homeowner Checklist: Portland Edition

November in the northwest brings shorter days, steady rain, and a reminder that winter is just around the corner. Whether you’re planning to stay put or thinking about selling in the coming months, this is the perfect time to get your home ready for the colder, wetter season ahead.

A little prep now can go a long way toward protecting your home’s value, avoiding costly repairs, and keeping things cozy when the temperatures drop. Here’s your Portland-specific homeowner checklist for November — practical, local, and worth tackling before the year ends.

1. Check Gutters and Downspouts

With Portland’s near-constant drizzle, clean and functional gutters are a must. Clogged gutters can lead to roof leaks, wood rot, and foundation problems. Make sure:

• Leaves and debris are cleared out.
• Downspouts direct water at least 3–4 feet away from your foundation.
• You install gutter guards if trees surround your home.

Pro tip: Check them again after the first big storm — pine needles and maple leaves love to sneak back in.

2. Test Exterior Lighting and Pathway Safety

Dark afternoons arrive fast in November. Make sure your porch lights, motion sensors, and walkway lighting are working properly.

• Replace burnt-out bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs.
• Add solar pathway lights for better curb appeal.
• Trim back overgrown shrubs that could block visibility.

Good lighting not only keeps your home inviting — it also improves safety for visitors and delivery drivers.

3. Service Your Furnace or Heat Pump

Don’t wait until a cold snap to find out your heating system needs attention. Have a licensed HVAC technician:

• Replace filters and tune up the system
• Clean ducts, if needed.
• Check for carbon monoxide leaks.

Routine maintenance keeps your system running efficiently (and can extend its lifespan). If your furnace is more than 15 years old, consider budgeting for an upgrade in 2026 — newer models can cut energy use significantly.

4. Seal Windows and Doors

Portland’s damp climate loves to find its way inside. Prevent heat loss and drafts by checking window seals and door weatherstripping.

• Use caulk for small gaps or cracks.
• Replace worn-out rubber seals.
• Add thermal curtains or draft stoppers for extra insulation.

This small task can noticeably improve comfort and lower heating bills — especially in older Portland homes.

5. Prep the Yard (and Tools) for Winter

Before freezing temps arrive in December, take a few hours to protect your outdoor spaces:

• Drain and store garden hoses.
• Shut off outdoor faucets or install freeze-proof covers.
• Rake the last of the fallen leaves to prevent soggy spots and mold.
• Clean and cover patio furniture and barbecue equipment.

Bonus: Give your lawn mower and garden tools a quick clean and oil before storing them — they’ll last longer and be ready for spring.

6. Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

As we spend more time indoors, it’s essential to make sure your safety devices are working properly. Replace batteries and test all alarms. Portland Fire & Rescue recommends having both smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home, especially near bedrooms. If your detectors are over 10 years of age, then it’s time to replace them.

7. Inspect the Roof and Attic

Even a small roof leak can lead to big headaches in a Portland winter. Look for:

• Missing or damaged shingles or vent covers.
• Signs of moss buildup (very common here!).
• Water stains or damp spots in the attic.

If you spot any issues, schedule repairs before December storms make access trickier.

8. Improve Indoor Air Quality

With windows closed most of the time, indoor air can get stale. Try these simple fixes:

• Change HVAC filters regularly.
• Use a dehumidifier if your home feels damp.
• Add indoor plants like peace lilies or snake plants — they help purify the air.

9. Review Your Home Insurance Coverage

It’s smart to review your homeowner’s insurance policy before the new year — especially if you’ve made upgrades or plan to rent out part of your home. Portland’s wet climate can cause unique issues like water intrusion, so make sure your coverage reflects potential risks.

10. Plan Ahead if You’re Thinking About Selling

If you’re considering listing your home in early 2026, this is the perfect time to get a head start.

• Tidy landscape and prune seasonally appropriate plants and trees.
• Take care of small repairs that buyers will notice.
• Talk with a local real estate team (like ours!) about timing, pricing, and prep work.

By getting organized now, you can hit the ground running once the spring market begins.

November in Portland is all about preparation. The rain may feel endless, but with a few proactive steps, you can protect your home, reduce stress, and even increase its value before the new year. A little maintenance today protects your home’s value, can save you thousands down the road — and keeps your home warm, dry, and ready for anything the Pacific Northwest weather brings.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home in the Beaverton or the greater Portland Metro Area, the Carey Hughes Homes Team is here to help. Reach out today for expert advice, local insights, and a clear plan for your next real estate move.