In Fort McMurray, many homes on the market are vacant due to work relocations, early possession of a new home, or sellers moving out before listing. A vacant home can show beautifully, but it also requires thoughtful preparation and consistent attention, especially during winter.
Cold temperatures and heavy snowfall mean a vacant property needs preventative care to stay protected and ready for showings.
Start With Your Insurance Policy
One of the most important steps is to check your insurance policy before your home becomes vacant. Most providers have specific requirements to keep coverage valid.
Requirements may include:
Scheduled check-ins every 48 to 72 hours
A written or digital log documenting each visit
Confirmation that the home is secure
Monitoring the furnace and indoor temperature
Keeping records, photos, or timestamps
Because every policy is different, contacting your insurance provider ensures that you understand what is required and how to properly document it. This is one of the simplest ways to prevent problems and maintain peace of mind.
Helpful resource: Insurance Bureau of Canada vacancy information — https://www.ibc.ca/
Temperature Monitoring and Furnace Care
Fort McMurray winters can reach extreme lows. A furnace failure can cause indoor temperatures to drop quickly, so ensuring reliable heat is essential.
Preventative tips:
Keep the thermostat at or above 17 degrees Celsius
Have the furnace serviced before winter
Replace filters before the home becomes vacant
Ask about remote monitoring devices (many HVAC companies offer them)
Have your designated check-in person confirm the temperature at each visit
These small steps help maintain a safe and stable environment inside the home, and can help avoid costly damages.
Safe Access: Snow Removal and Exterior Maintenance
Buyers, appraisers, inspectors, and agents all need safe access to the property. A vacant home should still feel accessible, cared for, and welcoming.
Snow removal guidelines:
Clear driveways, walkways, and front steps
Apply ice melt where needed
Keep exterior lights on timers
Clear decks and side paths where buyers or inspectors may access
If you cannot maintain this yourself, many Fort McMurray companies offer snow removal and vacant-home winter services.
Year-Round Diligence for Vacant Homes
Even outside winter, vacant homes benefit from consistent upkeep. This helps protect the property and ensures strong first impressions when buyers arrive.
General year-round guidance:
Check for leaks around plumbing fixtures
Run taps and flush toilets to keep plumbing active
Maintain ventilation and airflow
Keep the yard tidy and maintain curb appeal
Remove flyers, mail, and packages regularly
Ensure smoke and CO detectors are working
Maintain the mechanical systems as needed
A cared-for home shows better and helps support a smooth sale.
How Proper Vacant Home Maintenance Helps Your Sale
A vacant home that is well-maintained feels comfortable and safe during showings. Buyers notice when a property is looked after, and it reflects positively on the overall presentation.
Consistent maintenance helps:
Protect your insurance coverage
Prevent avoidable issues
Ensure safe access
Strengthen buyer confidence
Support a smooth and successful sale
Proactive care is one of the simplest ways to support your listing and present your home at its best.
Here To Guide You Through the Process
Vacant homes are common in Fort McMurray’s market, especially in winter. With the right systems in place, they can be shown safely and sold successfully. As a full-time REALTOR, I provide guidance on preparing your home, maintaining strong presentation, and connecting you with trusted professionals when additional help is needed.
If you are planning to list a vacant home or have questions about winter preparation, I am always here to help!
Written by Kate Arnold | REALTOR® with Coldwell Banker United