Most people shy away from house hunting on a rainy day, especially if they live in Orange County. Southern Californians are used to sunny days and when it rains they tend to stay inside. What I say is don’t stay inside just because of a little rain, go and check out the inventory!

A Different Perspective
House hunting on a rainy day is really a good idea when you think about it: It gives you, the prospective buyer, a chance to see the property in a different setting. This might not be the perfect setting, but it will give you an idea of what a property will feel like on a not-so-great day. You can always come back on a better day and look at the property, to get a feel for it in every way possible. Also, house hunting on a rainy day affords you the opportunity to detect flaws, or the lack thereof, with the property that you may not have noticed on a sunny day. How does the water run-off? Are there any puddles around the house, leaks, drainage issues, smells, etc.?

Bring Everyone

If you’ve got a family involved in the home search, bring them along. If you need to bribe them with something, entice them with comfort food at the end of the tour. If the family can see themselves enjoying a home in rainy weather then that could be a good sign — because they might be stuck inside until the coast is clear, and sometimes the natives get restless.

Dedication and Motivation

Other great perks of house hunting on a rainy day is the lack of competition and that you’re most likely dealing with a motivated agent and seller. Think about it: If a real estate agent is holding an open house on a rainy day, they are really dedicated to getting it sold. They want this property sold, and they are going to hold it open no matter what. This means the owner is also motivated. The owner knows that they need to allow their home to be shown in all conditions in order for it to be sold.

We should all applaud an agent who holds an open house on a rainy day — they are dedicated. As an agent, I would do the same thing, because from experience I know buyers are out there, rain or shine. And as an added incentive, I usually have a treat for them when they arrive (granola bars, popcorn, etc.).

Seize the Moment

To prospective buyers, I say take this advantage and go with it. Bring your agent with you or make sure you bring their card along. Leave it at the open house and that agent will follow up with your agent. Ask the onsite agent as many questions as you feel comfortable asking — that is one of the many reasons why they are there. For instance, you could ask them if they have noticed any flaws in the property during the rain.

Of course, if it’s really coming down or the driving conditions are dangerous, stay inside and get comfy. Enjoy where you are at the moment and daydream about what you would like your next place to be like. But if it’s safe to venture out, and the homes are open for viewing, house hunting on a rainy day can be an insightful and rewarding experience.

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