Your Home Can Show Well in Bad Weather

Published On: June 16, 2009

Lately, most people find themselves talking about the weather - usually bad - at some point in every conversation.  It's not that people have nothing else to say, but rather that the weather has been so unusual: f ast-moving, strong storms; hail; flash floods; even mini-tornadoes!

If you're trying to sell your home, you may be feeling the effects of the weather:  fewer potential buyers may be viewing your home, and you may think that your home looks dreary, just as the weather is dreary.

Fear not!  Bad weather does not have to mean a bad showing.

First, be confident that buyers will continue to look for a new home - especially if their need is urgent.  So, make sure that your home is ready to welcome potential buyers, with helpful touches like:

• a new "Welcome" mat, umbrella stand, and boot tray outside the door
• a coat tree inside the door.

Second, ensure that your home looks cheerful, no matter what the weather:

• Maintain your external property, and pick up any storm debris immediately.
• Have the gutters cleaned more frequently, to prevent rainwater from spilling over the sides.
• Place planters of seasonal flowers on either side of the front door, steps, or sidewalk.
• Inside, keep the window treatments open, to let in as much natural light as possible.
• Place small bouquets of fresh flowers in the main rooms.
• Turn on the lights in otherwise dark corners of rooms.

Taking these simple steps will keep your home "smiling,"  even on gray days.