There’s a moment every year when we know summer in Midcoast Maine is winding down. The air feels a little crisper in the evenings, the beaches are quieter and our favorite ice cream shop is suddenly closing before dinner. If you own a seasonal rental property here, that also means it’s time to start thinking about the not-so-glamorous — but very important — task of closing up for the season.
Properly closing up summer rental properties isn’t just about avoiding a surprise family of squirrels in the attic or frozen pipes in January. It’s about protecting your investment, keeping it in great shape, and making sure your first guests next year walk into a fresh, well-maintained space. A little planning now can save you major headaches (and expenses) come spring.
At City + Harbor, we understand the importance of properly closing your rental property. That’s why we created this checklist to help you.
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Schedule the Seasonal Inspection
Before you pack up the last beach chair, take one final walk through the property. Bring a checklist so nothing gets missed, and document any wear-and-tear or repairs that need attention. This is also a good time to consider having a professional property manager give the place a once-over — especially if you’ll be out of state. A trained eye can catch issues you might overlook.
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Deep Clean and Declutter
Think of this as a full reset. Clean every room thoroughly, paying special attention to appliances, kitchens and bathrooms. Wash all linens and either store them in sealed containers or take them with you for the winter. Remove any perishables from the fridge and pantry — yes, even that unopened box of crackers.
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Shut Down Utilities or Adjust Settings
Winter in Maine is not kind to plumbing. Drain all water lines or have a professional handle the winterization. Set the thermostat to a safe off-season temperature — around 55°F — to avoid frozen pipes. Unplug small appliances and consider surge protectors to safeguard electronics during storms.
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Secure Your Rental Property
This is your “no surprises” step. Lock all windows and doors, and make sure any sheds or garages are also secured. Installing a security system or smart monitoring device can give you peace of mind when you’re hundreds (or thousands) of miles away. If you won’t be in the Midcoast Maine area, arrange for a trusted neighbor or caretaker to check in periodically.
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Exterior and Yard Prep
Tidy up the outside before winter hits. Store patio furniture, clean gutters and inspect the roof, siding and any outdoor structures for issues. Trimming tree branches near the home can help prevent damage from heavy snow or ice. If your property is in an area prone to storms, you might also want to make arrangements for snow removal or storm prep.
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Update Listings and Gather Feedback
The off-season is the perfect time to make your property even more appealing for next year. Review guest feedback to identify improvements, refresh your photos and tweak your listing descriptions. You might also explore off-season marketing strategies if you plan to attract long-term winter tenants.
A Little Closing Effort Now Means a Stress-Free Spring
We’ve learned over the years that a well-prepared rental property doesn’t just survive the winter — it thrives. When you take the time to close it properly, you’ll have fewer repairs to make in the spring, your first guests will walk into a clean and welcoming space, and you’ll enjoy peace of mind all winter long.
Looking to sell your current short-term rental property in Midcoast Maine, or buy one? We are just the team for you. Contact City + Harbor today!