Prepare for an Open Houses in Bad Weather

by Marianna E Perez 02/23/2020

Image by Andy Dean Photography from Shutterstock

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.

How should you compensate for bad weather?

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.

About the Author
Author

Marianna E Perez

Marianna E. Perez is a Real Estate professional with over 20 years of experience. A lifelong resident of South Florida, she keeps her finger on the pulse of the latest trends and movements in the real estate market. She offers clients top-notch guidance from start to finish, ensuring the entire process is seamless, efficient and rewarding. Prior to entering real estate, Marianna was Senior Vice President of Commercial Real Estate Banking at City National Bank of Florida. She provided strategic leadership facilitating profitable and efficient origination of real estate loans. Marianna was a trusted advisor to clients and to the bank growing a real estate portfolio to over $300 million. She is firmly committed to the philosophy “not quantity, but quality,” which she practices in both her personal and professional life. Marianna is a graduate of FIU where she earned a bachelor’s degree in business management. She is a member of the Miami Association of Realtors, a lifetime board member of the BASF (Builders Association of South Florida), a member of CREW (Commercial Real Estate Women), and ICSC (International Council of Shopping Centers). She is also involved with the Women’s Leadership Council (United Way TNC). In addition, Marianna has received these special industry accolades: Housing Hall of Fame inductee 2017 Builders Association of South Florida, Associate of the Year 2017 Builders Association of South Florida, Florida’s Best Awards Chair 2016 and 2004 Builders Association of South Florida, Vice President 2008 Builders Association of South Florida, President’s Award 2008 and 2003