“I love showing homes when it rains”. I am sure you think this sounds like a very strange statement I am making. During the Fall season the weather is more rainy and the chance to see a home when it rains is much greater.

When it rains and you walk around the house you can see where the water puddles around the foundation or which gutters need cleaning or replacing. Puddles along the foundation or gutters who are not properly working are a possible signs of a drainage problem or a gutter problem, respectfully.

When you look at a house a few days after a rain look up at the ceiling when you walk through the house and you might spot off color spots that could indicate a possible roof leak.

Another place to keep an eye out for when it rains is the driveway. Regardless of whether the drive is a solid surface drive, gravel, or any other of loose type material. When the water does not drain away from the driveway it could indicate present or future problems. Does the water puddle or does it run off and where does the run off go to? Does the water run into the sewer system or does it drain back towards the house?

Why is the Fall season another good time to buy a home?

Most of the other buyers wait for the spring to buy and move because it is a good time to change schools. Waiting till school is out will not interrupt their children’s school . Many sellers are more willing to negotiate because they truly don’t want to move in the winter when there is most likely ice and snow on the ground.

When you are looking to buy an older home another good feather are the more mature trees many of the holder homes have around them. When you don’t mind the leaf clean-up (the lawn mower can be your best friend when picking up leaves) and the house comes with mature trees the seller might be ready to hand the task of leave clean-up to a new owner. Just keep in mind the gutter will need cleaning several times a year as well.

When you would like to have additional information on purchasing or selling a home contact the Settles Team and we are ready to answer any question you might have.