🍂 2025 Fall Homeowner’s Guide: Energy Efficiency + Santa Cruz Fun

By Leslie Cruz-Kelly, Your Bay-to-Beach Realtor®

Fall is one of the most magical seasons here in Santa Cruz. Between the crisp mornings, colorful leaves, and cozy gatherings, there’s no better time to not only enjoy our community but also to prepare your home for the colder months ahead.

If you’re a homeowner thinking about maximizing comfort, lowering energy bills, and adding value before selling, fall is the perfect season for upgrades. And if you’re not moving anytime soon, these updates still make your home shine with modern convenience.

In this guide, I’ll share my top energy efficiency updates, products to consider, and why they matter in the California market. And because I believe in balance (work + fun!), I've sprinkled in guides to my favorite spots in Santa Cruz.

🔌 Future-Proof Upgrade: Add an EV Charging Station

Did you know California has committed to phasing out new gas-powered vehicle sales by 2035? That means electric vehicles aren’t just a trend, they’re the future.

By installing a Level 2 home charging station, you’re showing buyers that your home is forward thinking and ready for what’s coming. Most EV owners want the convenience of charging at home, and having this built in feature can make your property stand out when it hits the market.

What to know:

• A Level 2 charger uses a 240V outlet (like a dryer) and can add 20–40 miles of driving range per hour.

• Installation usually requires a licensed electrician to assess your panel and wiring.

• California homeowners may qualify for rebates or credits, so check local programs before installing.

Resale benefit: Homes with EV chargers already installed appeal to eco-conscious buyers and future proof your property as demand grows.

Drive responsibly.

📹 Smart Home Device That Stands Out: Doorbells Without Fees

Smart devices are always a win, but not all are created equal. Buyers love the security and convenience of a video doorbell, but they don’t love ongoing subscription costs.

One of my favorite recommendations is the Eufy Security Video Doorbell E340. Why?

• It stores video locally, so you don’t need to pay for a monthly cloud plan.

• Crisp 2K resolution with color night vision.

• Instant motion alerts straight to your phone.

Other great options include the AOSU Chime Doorbell Camera or Swann EVO, both of which also offer local storage.

Adding a doorbell like this sends the message: this home is smart, secure, and ready to welcome you.

Treat yourself.

💧 Endless Hot Water: The Tankless Water Heater Glow-Up

We’ve all had that moment, you’re mid-shower, shampoo halfway through your hair, and bam! the water turns ice cold. Suddenly you’re standing there, questioning every life choice that led to this moment.

That doesn’t happen with a tankless water heater.

Unlike traditional water heaters that store and reheat a limited supply, tankless systems heat water on demand, meaning the minute you turn the faucet, you get endless, consistent hot water. No waiting. No freezing rinse. Just instant comfort.

And for families or busy households (like mine), that means no fighting over who showers first.

💡 Why it’s a smart upgrade

• Efficiency: Tankless units heat only what you use, saving energy and cutting monthly bills.

• Longevity: Most last 20+ years, compared to about 10 for traditional tanks.

• Space-saving: They mount to the wall, freeing up closet or garage space.

• Instant hot water: Some models include recirculation pumps, giving you near-immediate hot water at every fixture.

🔧 My recommended brands

• Rinnai Sensei Series: Super-efficient, reliable, and includes built-in recirculation (hello, spa vibes).

• Rheem Ikonic Series: Sleek design, smart Wi-Fi controls, and known for durability.

• EcoSmart (electric): Ideal for smaller homes or ADUs with no gas line.

Resale benefit: Buyers love the idea of never running out of hot water. It’s one of those subtle luxuries that makes your home feel upgraded without screaming “remodel.”

🪟 New Fix for Old Windows: Insulating Films

If full window replacement isn’t in the budget, consider insulating window film as a modern alternative. These films add a layer of thermal control, helping reduce drafts and heat loss without the cost of new windows.

• 3M Thinsulate Climate Control Film mimics the effect of Low-E glass, improving comfort year-round.

• Duck Brand Shrink-Seal Kits are DIY-friendly and can noticeably reduce drafts.

• Frost King EZRoll kits provide a heavier-duty option with easy application.

  
  

Resale benefit: Window insulation films are a small detail that signal to buyers you’ve invested in comfort and energy savings.

✨ Curb Appeal That Makes Buyers Stop and Smile

Curb appeal isn’t just for open houses, it’s the first impression you enjoy every time you pull into the driveway. But here’s the thing: improving it doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank.

🎃 My funny Halloween curb appeal moment

Last fall, I told myself I was “just adding a few decorations.” Two hours later, my front porch looked like the Haunted Mansion met a pumpkin patch explosion. I had skeletons lounging in lawn chairs, spider webs that could trap a small bird, and an inflatable ghost that wouldn’t stay upright. Costco and Targé are my go-to's.

But you know what? Every neighbor that walked by stopped to smile. And a few even told me, “Your house feels so inviting.”

That’s the secret, it’s not perfection, it’s personality.

Easy ways to boost curb appeal this fall

• Pressure wash your walkway and driveway (you’ll be shocked how new it looks).

• Add fresh mulch or seasonal flowers to your front yard.

• Paint your front door a bold color. Deep teal, pumpkin spice, or classic black.

• Swap your porch light for something modern and bright.

• Stage your porch with fall décor. Think planters, cozy lanterns, and a welcome mat that says, “Witch better have my candy.” LOL

Even small changes make your home stand out — and give it that “someone really loves this house” energy that buyers instantly feel.