If you’re like some buyers, house hunting during the colder seasons might be in your cards. Maybe you started looking in the summer but couldn’t find what you were looking for. Maybe you’re hoping there will be less competition this time of year. No matter what your reasoning, shorter days and sudden snowfalls don’t have to dampen your search for your next luxury home. Keep these in mind:
Check how the home copes with cold weather. One advantage to house hunting in the winter is that you can see how each home handles extreme weather. Make sure you check to see if the basement is dry, if the furnace seems to be functioning (hint: if it doesn’t, the home will be cold!), if the windows keep the heat in. You might also get a demonstration of things like heated tiles or an electric fireplace.
Sellers might be more willing to negotiate. During the long Canadian winters, some sellers might be trying to sell their home on a timeline, and thanks to a season that can see fewer buyers, they might be willing to negotiate. Thanks to less competition, you might find yourself less likely to end up in a bidding war for that dream home! A seasoned luxury real estate agent will be able to help you put in an offer that takes this into consideration.
Don’t forget the home inspection. Now, more than ever, you’re going to need a home inspector to check the exterior of your next luxury home. With roofs, driveways, lawns and porches potentially covered in snow, it might be harder to see obvious structural or aesthetic concerns. This means having a trusted home inspector by your side is an absolute must.
Be considerate: bring some slippers for viewings! You already know that it’s polite to take your shoes off before an open house or scheduled showing. But just in case your socks are a little wet too, be sure you bring some slippers or indoor shoes along as well. As a bonus, they will keep your feet warm as you check out unfinished basements or rooms with cold tiles underfoot.
