Six Reasons to Look at Homes on Rainy Days

Today is yet another rainy day here in the Lexington area. Sure seems like we have had our fair share of rainy days this summer. I sure do miss those pretty sunny days when I’m out house hunting with my clients. But I will be more than happy to sacrifice a pretty day for a rainy day because when you are looking for home, going on a rainy day could prove to be your best move yet.

Six reasons why looking at a home during the rain is a good ideal:

1.  You can check to see if the gutters and downspouts are draining a minimum of 4 foot away from foundation. You always want to keep water and moisture away from the home at all times.

2. Look at the roof line. Sloped roofs are the way to go as it prevents moisture build up. A flat roof may not be your best option, especially in areas where it rains frequently. A flat roof is a bad option for controlling water drainage, as the water usually tends to sit on the roof.

3. Inspect the ground next to the home. The ground should slope away from every inch of the home - all sides, all walls of the foundation. About 10 feet away is what I usually hear home inspectors recommend to the buyer. If the ground is not sloped properly, water will retain near the foundation.

4. Scope out the patios, driveways and walkways. If you notice any water draining toward the home, correct this situation immediately.

5. If the home has a basement, inspect it thoroughly on a rainy day. Are the foundation walls dry or do they feel moist. And is the sump pump working?

6. And last but not least, look for any piling of water in the grassy areas. You may have a low spot that produces a temporary small pond or stream during a moderate to heavy rain.

Once you do find that special home, make sure to have a licensed home inspector inspect the home for defects and possible issues. They will be able to go into more detail about the findings and give you insights on how to best protect your investments.

So just remember, if it’s raining outside, don’t cancel your home showing appointment, because seeing the home in inclement weather will be a key in determining future maintenance on the home!

For more helpful tips, or other things to look for when buying a home, count on me to provide you with all the necessary information to help you make an educated decision. If you are a home buyer, make sure you have your very own buyer’s agent, as it costs you nothing to have someone working just for you. Click here to read more about buyer’s agency. And as always, feel free to call/email/text me anytime. I am happy to help!

Lexington KY is always #1 in my book! Whether you want to buy a downtown condo, a custom walkout ranch on a golf course, or a horse farm in the country, I can help find the perfect home for you – as well as help you sell your home. In addition to Lexington Real Estate, I specialize in the nearby towns of Paris, Midway, Georgetown, and Versailles.