Here we are on a Saturday morning of a holiday weekend, and what a day it is. No, this is not one of those classic "showing houses all day and night and will write at least 500 offers off of it" kind of posts. This is one about something we all love: the weather.
We have had some nice little storms in Moody last night and this morning, so it made me think that I should mention some pointers for everyone in internet land. As I am in Alabama, rain and heat are the issue.
If you are selling your home, please be sure your house is always weather ready. Gutters should be cleaned out and drains should not be blocked. Any mud on the sidewalk leading to the house or in the drive should be kept clear. The reason you HAVE a sidewalk to the house or a drive way is to keep mud out. Be sure you have a mat at the door that is attractive but usable. I love the decorative mats, but they are not much use at keeping wet shoes out. After the storm, be sure any damage is fixed and the yard cleaned again.
As it gets hotter (and it will), please pay attention to your a.c. Have it serviced and keep it running right. Also, and just as important, at least an hour prior to showings, make sure it is on a comfortable temperature. Most people find 74 to 76 to be right. If you like it closer to 80, it will hurt the showing. Trust me. When I show a house on a hot day, it is almost as bad to walk into a hot house as it is to walk into a messy one. If you like to hang meat in your living room, that cold temp will hurt you as well.
If you are buying a home, keep in mind that looking at homes in the rain is not always a good idea. It makes it hard to look at the roof and inspect the outside. While you may see run-off issues and other water related things, you will miss other very important ones. Also, keep in mind that just because a house is too warm doesn't mean that the air is broken. It is very likely that the home owner has the temperature set higher than you like.
Just some free advice about late spring, summer, and fall weather in Alabama from your Birmingham Real Estate Expert.
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