As temperatures drop across the Fraser Valley—Surrey, Langley, White Rock, Abbotsford, and Chilliwack—homeowners are firing up their furnaces for the first time since spring. But before winter kicks in, now is HVAC season—the ideal time to service your heating system.
Whether you’re thinking about selling your home in the next 6 months or buying in this market, HVAC maintenance is more than just a comfort thing—it can make or break a deal during a home inspection.
Why HVAC Matters in Real Estate
🚩 If You’re Selling: Avoid Red Flags in the Home Inspection
Nothing kills buyer confidence faster than a poorly maintained furnace. Home inspectors look closely at heating systems, and they will flag:
Dirty or clogged furnace filters
Cracked heat exchangers
Inconsistent heat distribution
Poor airflow from vents
Burnt or dusty smells on startup
Rust or corrosion in the unit
Missing service records
No carbon monoxide detector near furnace
Once that inspection report lands, a small furnace issue can turn into:
Price negotiations against you
Buyer repair credits
Subject removal delays
Or worst-case—a collapsed deal
✅ Seller Tip: If your furnace is older than 8–10 years, get it serviced now and keep the receipt. Providing a recent HVAC service record builds buyer confidence and strengthens your position during negotiations.
🔍 If You’re Buying: Protect Yourself from Costly Surprises
Replacing a furnace in the Fraser Valley can range from $4,500–$9,500 depending on size and efficiency. Heat pumps can run even higher. Here’s what to watch for during a walkthrough or inspection:
| Buyer Checklist | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Age of furnace (check data plate) | 15+ years = nearing end of life |
| Service history visible? | No maintenance = risk |
| Burn marks or rust? | Potential overheating |
| Strange noises or smells? | Internal damage |
| Cold spots in home | Duct or airflow issues |
| Missing CO detector | Safety concern |
| Furnace short-cycling | Efficiency or wiring problems |
✅ Buyer Tip: If the seller can’t provide HVAC service records, negotiate a professional inspection or credit for your own servicing after possession.
Mid-Fall HVAC Maintenance Checklist
Whether you’re selling or just closing on a new home, here’s what should get done now:
Change furnace filters
Schedule a professional HVAC tune-up
Clean supply and return vents
Test thermostat and batteries
Vacuum furnace room and remove storage around it
Check CO and smoke detectors
Inspect outdoor exhaust vents
Confirm ducts aren’t blocked by furniture
Real Estate Bottom Line
Mid-fall HVAC servicing isn’t just a homeowner chore—it protects home value and simplifies real estate deals. Being proactive today can:
✅ Build buyer confidence
✅ Prevent inspection issues
✅ Avoid price reductions
✅ Reduce energy bills
✅ Keep your home safe and comfortable
Thinking about selling this winter or early spring? Now is the time to get ahead of the prep before the market gets busy again. Want a full Pre-Listing Home Inspection Checklist? Just say the word—I’ll send it over.