With heatwaves sweeping most of the country and feels-like temperatures hitting 109 in Hotlanta, the extreme weather is having a real impact on how buyers and sellers navigate the Georgia real estate market. Here is what I have observed after nearly 20 years in Northeast Metro Atlanta.
Do Buyers Stop Househunting in Extreme Weather?
A comfortable home helps sell an emotional decision. But if the buyer is uncomfortable before they walk inside, we already have an uphill battle. I certainly feel homes show better and buyers are happier when the weather is not extremely hot or cold.
Right now, it is 95 degrees but feels like 106 in Hotlanta so no amount of cookies and bottled waters can help cool off buyers! The extreme temps may not stop them, but it certainly affects their patterns. They will often reduce the number of homes to see and even spend less time at each showing.
I always tell my sellers that there has to be a great reason why they are out in the extreme weather, so they must be motivated! And, we love motivated buyers.
Lisa's Take
Extreme heat does not stop a motivated buyer. It does, however, shorten their attention span and reduce the number of homes they are willing to tour. As a seller, that means every detail of your listing needs to work harder to make an impression in less time.
Rainy Showings: A Hidden Opportunity
I have had many buyers quickly reject submitting offers on homes after rainy showings. But here is the thing: rain is often a great opportunity to see how water flows on the lot, if gutters work properly, how the yard handles water, water intrusion concerns, and how the neighbor's water flow might possibly impact your property.
This provides so much valuable insight that a typical home inspection might not catch on a bright sunny day, so it is priceless knowledge.
What Rain Reveals
- How water flows across the lot and away from the foundation
- Whether gutters and drainage systems are functioning properly
- Potential water intrusion points that sunlight hides
- How neighboring properties' drainage might affect yours
- Yard grading and erosion patterns under real conditions
When Buyers Care Most About Systems and Efficiency
When the weather is extreme, buyers are definitely more interested in investigating efficiency, extra insulation, age of systems, maintenance records, utilities records, upgrades, and more. I always try to have the sellers prepare this beforehand so we stand out above our competitors.
Lisa's Tips for Sellers in Extreme Weather
Service Your HVAC System
Make sure your HVAC system is serviced and running perfectly before listing. A home that is cool in summer or warm in winter immediately puts buyers at ease and signals a well-maintained property.
Prepare Documentation
Have utility bills, maintenance records, and system age documentation ready. Buyers in extreme weather scrutinize efficiency more than any other time of year.
Keep the Home Comfortable
Keep the home cool and comfortable for summer showings (or warm in winter). Buyers who are physically comfortable spend more time in the home and form stronger emotional connections.
Invest in All-Weather Curb Appeal
Invest in curb appeal that holds up in all weather conditions. First impressions matter even more when the buyer is already uncomfortable from the elements.
Price Competitively
Price competitively because motivated buyers in extreme weather are serious buyers. They are out touring homes in 109-degree heat for a reason, and they know the market.
The Bottom Line
Extreme weather changes the dynamics of showings, but it does not stop the market. It simply rewards the prepared seller and the motivated buyer.
Thinking about buying or selling in Apalachee Farms?
Contact Lisa Harris for expert guidance in any weather. With nearly 20 years of experience in Northeast Metro Atlanta, Lisa knows how to position your home for success regardless of the conditions outside.