How Extreme Weather Affects Home Buyers and Sellers in Georgia

With heatwaves sweeping most of the country and feels-like temperatures hitting 109 in Hotlanta, the extreme weather is having a real impact on how buyers and sellers navigate the Georgia real estate market. Here is what I have observed after nearly 20 years in Northeast Metro Atlanta.

Do Buyers Stop Househunting in Extreme Weather?

A comfortable home helps sell an emotional decision. But if the buyer is uncomfortable before they walk inside, we already have an uphill battle. I certainly feel homes show better and buyers are happier when the weather is not extremely hot or cold.

Right now, it is 95 degrees but feels like 106 in Hotlanta so no amount of cookies and bottled waters can help cool off buyers! The extreme temps may not stop them, but it certainly affects their patterns. They will often reduce the number of homes to see and even spend less time at each showing.

I always tell my sellers that there has to be a great reason why they are out in the extreme weather, so they must be motivated! And, we love motivated buyers.

Rainy Showings: A Hidden Opportunity

I have had many buyers quickly reject submitting offers on homes after rainy showings. But here is the thing: rain is often a great opportunity to see how water flows on the lot, if gutters work properly, how the yard handles water, water intrusion concerns, and how the neighbor's water flow might possibly impact your property.

This provides so much valuable insight that a typical home inspection might not catch on a bright sunny day, so it is priceless knowledge.

When Buyers Care Most About Systems and Efficiency

When the weather is extreme, buyers are definitely more interested in investigating efficiency, extra insulation, age of systems, maintenance records, utilities records, upgrades, and more. I always try to have the sellers prepare this beforehand so we stand out above our competitors.

Lisa's Tips for Sellers in Extreme Weather

Make sure your HVAC system is serviced and running perfectly before listing.

Have utility bills, maintenance records, and system age documentation ready.

Keep the home cool and comfortable for summer showings (or warm in winter).

Invest in curb appeal that holds up in all weather conditions.

Price competitively because motivated buyers in extreme weather are serious buyers.

Bottom line: extreme weather changes the dynamics of showings, but it does not stop the market. It simply rewards the prepared seller and the motivated buyer.