How is awful weather helping your home search?
Your grandmother always told you, “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” For those of us who aren’t winter sports enthusiasts, this awful weather is one big lousy lemon. But there is a silver lining! If you’re in the market for a home, this awful weather can work to your advantage, and here’s why:
- As you can probably imagine, very few homebuyers want to see homes when the wind chill is in the negative numbers. Who can blame them? But when the market is this competitive for buyers (due to a low inventory of homes for sale), it might be worth bundling up and making the trip. We can tell you from experience that the weather really does affect the number of appointments we have! Of course, we’re not suggesting that anybody sacrifice safety—if the roads are slick or a storm’s a-brewin’, wait for another day.
- Another benefit of fewer buyers willing to brave this chilly weather is more personalized attention from your real estate professionals. It’s likely that your agent will have fewer appointments than normal, and your lender will have extra time to answer questions. Some lenders and moving companies reduce or waive fees to entice homebuyers in the off-season. Take advantage!
- Last, but certainly not least, is greater insight into the condition of the home. These chilly temperatures, snow, and ice put your home’s heating system, roof, gutters, and plumbing to the test. A home buyer or home inspector may be able to pick up on defects a bit more easily this time of year.When life gives you a polar vortex, go home hunting.