Photo by Erik Witsoe on Unsplash
When placing your home on the market you’ll likely need to plan to hold an open house or two. If there's a chance of bad weather during a scheduled open house, you might question moving ahead with the event.
Before you cancel, here are a few things to consider:
Serious buyers venture out in all types of weather, so those who show are less likely to be simply curious lookers.
Buyers can experience that your home stays cozy and warm even in poor weather.
Your roof’s secure structure will shine through.
Canceling may signal to buyers that windows, the roof, or the basement areas leak and that your exterior drainage needs work.
Canceling at the last minute might make folks think twice about returning if they made the initial effort to attend.
Make the experience pleasant:
Turn on every light. Make your home as bright as possible. You want potential buyers to see your home as warm and inviting.
Open the curtains, shutters, and blinds.
Check that gutters are clear of debris. Be sure water flows freely from gutters into your downspouts and that it diverts away from walkways.
Provide outside and inside doormats and set a stack of towels near the entryways in case anyone needs to dry off.
Set an umbrella stand near the door so that wet umbrellas stay in one spot.
Odors may appear stronger on wet days, consider moving pet beds and similar items to the garage. Use a lightly-scented fabric refreshing spray to eliminate odors in furniture, carpets, or drapes.
Provide warm beverages and to-go cups for your guests.
If you question holding an open house during inclement weather, consult your local real estate professional. They know your market, and they know the sorts of buyers that will come — rain or shine — to find their new home.
Kimberly Kelly decided to get her real estate license when she moved to South Orange with her family and fell in love with the classic, period homes of the area. Having worked in the city for many years for LexisNexis, Kim understands the appeal of an easy commute to NYC. That’s why she specializes in towns along the Mid-Town Direct train line, offering welcoming communities, good schools, and space to grow.
Very active in her children’s school PTA, Kim knows firsthand how important a school system is to parents looking to make the move to the ‘burbs. She volunteers with fairs, fundraising, and other activities that bolster support for education. Kim also believes involvement in the greater community enriches us all and has sat on various boards & associations throughout the years.
Kim Kelly has lived many places throughout her life, from Pennsylvania to Oregon, but has found New Jersey to be the ideal place to raise her family and put down roots. She loves nothing more than helping others discover their special place as well. Kim’s extensive knowledge of the area, combined with her sense of community, offers clients a personalized guide to finding the right house - and town - to call home.
