A Rainy Day in Georgia - Better check those basements

 

Spring has sprung for the second time here in Georgia, as I suspect is has for much of the southeast this year.  As I eagerly anticipated the coming of spring that would bring with it the start of the home shopping season, much to my surprise, and dismay, we had a sudden cold snap that caused the trees to drop their newly sprouted leaves, dashing my hopes of getting back to work.  Thankfully the frosty mornings were short lived and have now been replaced by spring rains.  It's a rainy day here in rural Georgia and the foothills of the Appalachians are alive with lush foliage and the sweet sound of chirping birds darting happily to and fro as the gently falling rain taps at autumn's remnants.  Which reminds me, rainy days are great days to check for basement leaks in those homes that you or your clients may be interested in buying.

Last year was without a doubt a sellers market.  This year however, with the downturn of the home loan industry, the market is heavy with inventory, turning the tide to a buyers market.  But even in a buyers market a valuable piece of advice I offer to my homebuyers is to not overlook those seemingly overpriced "vacant" properties whose owners have already settled into new digs.  The heavy maintenance and tax burdens of a vacant property tend to make these sellers much more negotiable.  I love negotiating.  Garage sales, flea markets, real estate, whatever.  Somehow a thing has more value when you pay less for it.  Wouldn't you agree?

Well I'm off to check on those basements for my buyers.  If there is anything I can do for you here in the North Atlanta or North Georgia area please don't hesitate to let me know.  Happy house hunting, and have a Beautiful, Blessed Spring.