Going to home showings can be hard enough already. When the clouds roll in, and rain starts pouring, you may feel tempted to cozy up inside instead of looking at new homes for sale. However, several advantages await homebuyers who can continue their search in the rain.

Beat the crowds, inspect for water-damage dealbreakers, and get one step closer to finding the house of your dreams. Got your umbrella ready? Here’s what you need to know about going to home showings on rainy days.

The Competition Stays Home

It’s no secret that the housing market is competitive. Open houses and home showings can quickly turn into a bidding war, especially in desirable neighborhoods. When the rain is pouring, many homebuyers will likely stay indoors rather than venture out to look at homes. This means that there will be fewer people competing for the same property.

Attending a quiet home showing gives you more time and space to slow down and really explore the home. Instead of rushing from room to room, you can sit down, listen to rain pattering on the roof, and envision yourself living there.

Going to an open house on rainy days will also give you more face time with the listing agent. With fewer people around, you can ask all the questions you want and get to know the agent personally. Face-to-face relationship-building could come in handy if multiple offers start rolling in.

Rain Reveals Hidden Issues & Water Damage

Water damage can completely tank a home’s value. Rainy days are the perfect time for leaks, stains, musty smells, and other factors that are included in a home inspection. Pay close attention during your walkthrough for any signs of water damage, such as:

• Water stains on ceilings or walls
• Sagging ceilings
• Buckling floors
• Mildew or mold
• Musty smells

If you notice any of these red flags, the home might have extensive water damage. While some water damage can be repaired, moving on to another property is best unless you’re prepared to make a hefty investment. Water damage doesn’t always have to be a deal breaker. If you’re willing to take on a fixer-upper, discovering water damage can help you negotiate a lower price. Either way, you’re less likely to find out about rain-related issues if you only visit homes on sunny days.

You Can See How the Exterior Holds Up to Rain

The last thing you want is to buy a home, move in, and find out that the roof leaks or that the gutters are falling off. To avoid any nasty surprises down the road, it’s essential to thoroughly inspect a home’s exterior during rainy weather.

Get your raincoat on and do a lap around the home. Is the backyard completely flooded? This could be a sign of drainage issues. Also, take a close look at the roof maintenance. Are there any missing shingles or about-to-break tree branches? These are both easy (and relatively inexpensive) fixes, but it’s important to be aware of them before you make an offer on the home.

Rainy-day home viewings are even more important if you’re interested in properties near a body of water. What seems like a small creek on a dry day could turn into a raging river during a rainstorm. Lakefront homes are especially susceptible to flooding, so make a note of how shorelines affect your property boundaries in the rain.

The Importance of Viewing Homes During Rainy Days

Viewing homes on rainy days presents a unique opportunity to assess important aspects of a property that are often overlooked in fair weather. The presence of a sump pump, for instance, becomes a significant point of interest. A well-maintained sump pump can be the unsung hero during heavy rains, preventing basement flooding and safeguarding the home’s structural integrity. It’s crucial for potential buyers to inquire about and inspect this feature, especially in areas prone to heavy precipitation.

Moreover, heavy rain can reveal critical information about the roof’s condition. Loose shingles, for example, may become more apparent during a downpour, providing insight into the roof’s overall health and longevity. This observation is vital as it can save future homeowners from costly repairs and inconvenience. Observing the roof during rain also allows buyers to evaluate the effectiveness of clean gutters and downspouts in diverting water away from the home, ensuring that the foundation remains solid and undamaged by water.

Lastly, a home’s foundation is its bedrock, and heavy rains can expose any weaknesses or issues. When viewing a home during a storm, pay attention to how water flows around the foundation. Is it pooling or draining effectively? This can be a telltale sign of the home’s ability to handle weather-related challenges. Additionally, it’s important to check for any blockages caused by leaves or other debris that might impede water flow. A solid foundation and effective drainage are paramount to a home’s durability, especially in regions where heavy rains are a common occurrence. By considering these factors, homebuyers can make a more informed decision and invest with confidence.

Reap the Benefits of Rainy Day Home Viewings

Home buying is never all sunshine and rainbows. Rainy days might not be most people’s idea of fun, but they can actually be the best time to go home shopping. Since fewer people are out and about, you won’t have to compete with as many other buyers for your dream home. Also, rain can help reveal hidden issues, such as water damage or leaks. Finally, by observing how the exterior of a potential property holds up in bad weather, you can get a better sense of its long-term durability. So next time there’s a storm brewing, don’t let it deter you from going on some real estate showings!