Winter is in full swing—and if you want to emerge in spring with your property in tip-top shape, there are a few things you’ll want to do now in order to protect it.

But what, exactly, are those things?

A recent article from REALTOR® Magazine outlined key steps homeowners can take to prevent property damage during the winter months, including:

• Check your gutters. Leaves fall off many trees in the winter—and many of those leaves often end up in gutters. Make sure to check your gutters for any seasonal debris—and remove any leaves that have accumulated in your gutters.
• Do a weather-related perimeter check. Winter is notorious for inclement weather—but you don’t want that weather coming into your home! Make sure to check your home to ensure there aren’t any opportunities for drafts, leaks, or other weather-related issues (for example, holes in screens or improperly installed windows)—and, if you find any, make sure to repair them immediately.
• Salt and shovel your driveway. You don’t want winter weather to damage your property—but you also don’t want it to damage you, your family, or any guests. If you live in an area that gets snow and ice, make sure to regularly salt and shovel your driveway to prevent slips, falls, and accidents.