30 Things Every Homeowner Should Be Able to Handle Like a Pro

A Denver Homeowner’s Guide to Maintenance, Protection & Long-Term Value

Owning a home is one of the most rewarding milestones—but it also comes with an ongoing list of responsibilities. Whether you live in Colorado or anywhere else in the U.S., knowing how to maintain your home helps protect your investment, prevent costly repairs, and ensure comfort year-round.

As real estate professionals in the Denver area, we know that consistent home maintenance doesn’t just improve daily living—it directly impacts resale value when it’s time to list. Routine upkeep makes when a home goes on the market—both in buyer confidence and final sale price, while small, nagging issues left undone can quickly erode it.

Discover 30 must-know homeowner skills to help you tackle every part of home maintenance with confidence…
Preparing your home for the weather is crucial in Colorado, but these skills are useful no matter where you live.

Things Every Homeowner Should Know How to Do in Denver, Colorado
Preparing your home for the weather is crucial in Colorado, but these skills are useful no matter where you live.

Seasonal & Weather-Related Homeowner Skills

1. Winterize Your Home Properly
Winter can be harsh in many parts of the country. Homeowners should know how to:
- Add insulation to exposed pipes
- Seal windows and doors
- Swap HVAC filters
- Schedule heating inspections
- Disconnect outdoor hoses 

Proper winter prep prevents frozen pipes, high heating bills, and mid-season emergencies.

2. Manage Ice Dams and Heavy Roof Snow
Ice dams cause leaks and major roof damage. Learn how to:
- Rake snow from the roof line
- Improve attic insulation
- Identify sagging or pooling water
- Bring in a professional before damage spreads

Proactive roof care saves thousands in repairs.

3. Maintain Your HVAC System Year-Round
Your heating and cooling systems work nonstop. Know how to:
- Change filters regularly
- Keep outdoor units clear
- Schedule seasonal tune-ups
- Set thermostats efficiently 

Healthy systems lower bills and improve comfort.

4. Care for Hardwood Flooring in Varying Climates
Wood flooring reacts to moisture, dryness, and temperature. Maintain by:
- Using humidifiers/dehumidifiers
- Keeping humidity stable
- Protecting floors from UV exposure
- Using furniture pads 

With proper care, hardwood floors last decades.

5. Clear Snow and Ice Safely
Winter safety matters. Homeowners should know:
- Ergonomic shoveling techniques
- How to use ice melt properly
- How to operate a snowblower
- How to prevent surface damage 

This keeps walkways safe for residents and guests and, in some cases, helps meet HOA requirements.

6. Prepare for Storms, Wind, or Hail
Every region experiences severe weather. Homeowners should know how to:
- Inspect roofs after storms
- Identify damaged shingles
- Document issues for insurance
- Prevent clogged gutters and drainage problems 

Quick action minimizes long-term damage.

7. Maintain an Irrigation or Sprinkler System
Healthy landscaping requires proper watering. Know how to:
- Drain irrigation before winter
- Restart systems in spring
- Adjust water schedules
- Spot leaks or broken heads

Optimized watering saves time and money.

Things Every Homeowner Should Know How to Do in Denver, Colorado
Being able to repair minor leaks, clean under sink traps and unclog drains could save you hundreds.

Plumbing & Water-Management Skills

8. Locate and Use the Main Water Shut-Off Valve
One of the most critical homeowner skills. Learn to:
- Find the main valve
- Shut it off immediately during leaks
- Test valves annually 

This knowledge prevents catastrophic flooding.

9. Fix a Running Toilet or Minor Leak
Small plumbing fixes add up. Know how to:
- Replace flappers
- Tighten supply lines
- Replace faucet cartridges 

These quick repairs reduce water waste and utility costs.

10. Unclog Drains Without Damaging Pipes
Avoid chemical drain cleaners. Instead learn to:
- Use a drain snake
- Clean traps under sinks
- Prevent buildup with strainers 

Safe methods protect your plumbing long-term.

Fire safety is a must for all homeowners. Know where your extinguishers are and how to properly use them with the PASS method.

Electrical & Safety Skills

11. Reset Breakers and Troubleshoot Outages
Electrical knowledge keeps your home running safely. Know how to:
- Identify tripped breakers
- Reset GFCI outlets
- Avoid overloading circuits
- Use surge protectors properly 

12. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Essential for every home. Learn to:
- Test alarms monthly
- Replace batteries once a year
- Replace units every 7–10 years 

13. Use Fire Extinguishers Properly
Many homeowners own them—few know how to use them. Learn to:
- Check pressure gauges
- Replace expired units 
- Remember the PASS technique

P – Pull the Pin
Start by pulling the safety pin at the top of the extinguisher.
This pin prevents accidental discharge, so make sure it’s fully removed.
Once pulled, the extinguisher is ready to use.

A – Aim at the Base of the Fire
Aim the nozzle or hose at the base of the fire, not the flames.
Targeting the fuel source helps smother the fire effectively.
Keep a safe distance—usually 6 to 8 feet away—and adjust as needed as the fire diminishes.

S – Squeeze the Handle
Squeeze the handles together to release the extinguishing agent.
Do this in a controlled, steady manner—don’t just blast the fire.
Keep your hands steady and maintain your stance for balance.

S – Sweep Side to Side
Sweep the nozzle from side to side, covering the area of the fire.
Continue sweeping until the fire is completely out.
Move closer gradually if it’s safe, always keeping an escape route in mind.

Repairing damaged drywall is simple and restores your walls to a smooth, polished finish you can take pride in.

General Home Maintenance Skills

14. Patch Walls and Repair Minor Drywall Damage
Keep your home in top condition by learning to:
- Patch small holes
- Repair dents
- Sand and paint seamlessly 
- Quick fixes keep walls looking pristine

15. Clean Gutters and Maintain Drainage
Healthy gutters protect your foundation and roof. Homeowners should:
- Remove debris twice a year
- Flush downspouts
- Repair sagging or leaks 

Good drainage prevents erosion and water intrusion.

16. Maintain Exterior Wood Structures
Decks, pergolas, siding, and fences need periodic care. Know how to:
- Pressure wash gently
- Stain and seal wood
- Check for rot or cracks 

Routine care extends the life of outdoor spaces.

17. Maintain Fireplaces (Gas or Wood)
Fireplaces add comfort but need upkeep. Learn to:
- Clean firebox ash (wood-burning)
- Clean glass panels (gas)
- Replace igniter batteries
- Schedule chimney inspections 

Proper care ensures safe, efficient operation.

18. Maintain Home Appliances
Small tasks extend appliance life. Homeowners should know how to:
- Clean fridge coils
- Flush water heaters
- Clean dryer vents
- Replace dishwasher filters 

Regular upkeep prevents expensive breakdowns.

19. Caulk and Seal Windows, Doors, and Bathrooms
Sealing prevents water intrusion and drafts. Learn to:
- Apply caulk cleanly
- Replace old or cracked sealant
- Identify moisture-prone areas proper sealing protects your home’s structure

Things Every Homeowner Should Know How to Do in Denver, Colorado
Technology is amazing—until it breaks. A few essential skills can have you up and running in no time.

Home Technology & Organization

20. Troubleshoot Home Wi-Fi and Smart Devices
Modern homes rely on technology. Know how to:
- Reboot and reset routers
- Update firmware
- Position mesh units
- Reset smart locks and cameras 

Understanding your tech system prevents downtime.

21. Store Outdoor & Seasonal Gear Safely
From sports gear to holiday décor, know how to:
- Use shelving, racks, or Slatwall
- Protect items from moisture
- Keep garages and sheds organized 

A tidy home protects your belongings and maximizes space.

22. Change Locks & Manage Home Security
Home safety starts with access. Learn how to:
- Re-key locks
- Replace deadbolts
- Reset smart lock codes
- Update Wi-Fi passwords 

Security knowledge provides peace of mind.

23. Create an Annual Home Maintenance Calendar
Every homeowner should track routine tasks. Include:
- Seasonal chores
- HVAC filter changes
- Safety tests
- Appliance maintenance 

Staying organized prevents costly surprises.

24. Assemble a Basic Home Toolkit
Every homeowner needs tools. Know how to use:
- Drills
- Levels
- Stud finders
- Hammers, screwdrivers, pliers, utility knives 

Basic skills keep small tasks from becoming big expenses.

25. Build a Home Emergency Kit
Preparedness matters. Include:
- Flashlights and batteries
- First-aid items
- Food and water
- Backup chargers
- Copies of important documents 

Things Every Homeowner Should Know How to Do in Denver, Colorado Homeownership success comes from smart maintenance and realistic repair budgeting.

Home Financial & Administrative Know-How

26. Read Your Home Inspection Report
Every homeowner should understand:
- What “major issues” really mean
- Which items need immediate repair
- Which can wait 

This helps you prioritize maintenance and budgeting.

27. Understand Your Home Insurance Policy
Know the basics of your policy, including:
- Deductibles
- Coverage limits
- What weather events or damage types are included
- How to file a claim 

Understanding coverage prevents surprises during emergencies.

28. Create a Home Maintenance Budget
- Unexpected repairs are inevitable. Homeowners should know how to:
- Set aside 1–3% of the home’s value annually
- Prioritize big-ticket items (roof, HVAC, water heater)

Track recurring maintenance Budgeting protects your investment long-term.

Things Every Homeowner Should Know How to Do in Denver, Colorado
Energy-efficient, sustainable updates safeguard your home’s value while reducing long-term costs.

Energy Efficiency & Sustainability

29. Improve Home Energy Efficiency
Learn to:
- Install LED bulbs
- Add programmable or smart thermostats
- Seal ductwork
- Upgrade insulation gradually 

Energy improvements save money and increase comfort.

30. Understand Basic Pest Prevention
- Every region has pests—termites, ants, mice, spiders. Homeowners should know how to:
- Seal entry gaps
- Use traps or repellents safely
- Identify signs of infestations early 

Quick action prevents serious structural damage.

Mastering these 30 essential homeowner skills helps you protect your property, reduce costly repairs, and feel confident maintaining your home year after year, whether in Colorado or elsewhere. With the right knowledge, every homeowner—new or experienced—can enjoy a safer, more efficient, and beautifully maintained home.

If you are considering buying or selling anywhere in the Denver area, reach out to Allison Rankin, Jane Goulder, or Amy Kissinger today! Whether you're a first-time buyer, an investor, or an experienced homeowner looking to upsize or downsize, we possess the experience, resources, and relationships to assist you.

Allison Rankin, Jane Goulder, Amy Kissinger - Top Colorado Real Estate Agents of Compass Denver