Extreme weather events are often unexpected and can have devastating consequences for individuals, families and communities. Sadly many people aren't prepared when disaster strikes.
Checklist:
Have you got an emergency safety plan and a family meeting place?
Do you keep a first aid kit handy in your house and in your vehicle?
Have you an emergency water and food supply somewhere high and dry?
Are your House and Contents Insurance policies up to date?
When was the last time you checked your drains and gutterings were clear of leaves and debris?
Do you know your neighbours and do they know you?
What is interesting is how little data there is on the effects of extreme short term weather events on the real estate industry and house prices. Perhaps this is because these events are thought to be a ‘one-off’, which no one can predict and because it is over so quickly, there maybe minimal effect at all.
Longer term weather events on the other hand, can have a significant near-term impact on home sales according to a survey conducted by Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd, which states that if a region is experiencing a heat wave or an unusually long winter, sellers may be more reluctant to list their homes and buyers may be less willing to get out into the market to look for a property.
“With all the different factors that affect the housing market, weather can often be over-looked. Severe weather, be it extreme heat, wet or cold, can prolong or delay seasonal sales cycles by weeks or even months,” says Phil Soper, chief executive officer of Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd. “The findings indicate that harsh weather may impact the number of homes bought and sold during a particular trading period. While this doesn’t speak directly to housing prices, a short-term drop in demand can impact local home values for a period of time. There is no evidence, however, that weather events change home prices over the longer term.”
If you want to sell your home during inclement seasons, there are strategies to beat the weather:
When listing a home in the hot summer months, invest in air conditioning or other solutions to cool off a home during open homes. Watering your lawn and gardens will maintain that all-important street appeal – after all, first impressions are critical.
In the coldest parts of winter, ensure your home is heated to a cozy temperature during open homes and even though gardens do not look their best in the winter, it is still important that the driveway, paths and garden look tidy. It would be helpful to have pictures of the garden in full bloom placed strategically somewhere in side the house for interested buyers to look at.
As we enjoy the nice weather going into Summer, low interest rates and a good level of consumer confidence, now is a good time to consider selling. When choosing a real estate agent, choose someone who is knowledgeable about the area, has an innovative marketing program and has a proven track record for getting results.
Contact Shar Davis for a no obligation, free market appraisal to see what your home is worth today.
Mobile: 027 678 6640
Email: shar.davis@harcourts.co.nz
Survey source: https://dancooper.com/how-much-does-weather-affect-the-real-estate-market/