Buying in the Rain

April showers bring….the perfect time to house shop in rainy Charleston. Here are a few ways to use the weather to your advantage this month. Location, Location, Location Charlestonians are no stranger to street flooding, and the savvy homebuyer knows to do a drive-by of homes during and after heavy rainfall to assess the area, especially when that rainfall occurs during high tide. You’ll want to weigh the potential for future flooding and inconveniences should your new street be one that ends up under water on a regular basis. Cruise around the neighborhood to see which streets retain water and peek into the driveway to look for puddle buildup.

Soggy Lawns Wait a day after heavy rain to see a house, and then step onto the front (and back, if possible) lawn of a potential home. Feet sinking into soggy mud? This could indicate poor drainage and might be a large expense to fix.   Leaky Roofs and Windows Touring a home in the rain is the perfect opportunity to spy potential leaks. Crank that neck and look up! Check ceilings for evidence of water, or look low under windows for signs of water seeping in around the frame. Open Houses Rain will often deter even the most determined buyers from heading out for a day of house hunting. Grab that umbrella and persevere; you will likely be one of few at any open houses, and will have the agent’s undivided attention for questions. You will also put yourself ahead of the game in making an offer while others are home staying dry. So grab that umbrella and hit the streets today!