The lyrics should have been something like "It hardly ever rains in sunny Southern California, but when it does, man, it's a mess!" ... If you have been following the weather reports you know what's currently going on in the usually so sunny SoCal: floods, mud slides, water spouts, etc. - not really things you'd expect in this area, but as you can see, they do happen.
Even though you might think this would be the worst time to buy a house it is actually a great time! Right about now you probably think I'm nuts, right? But, there actually is method to my madness ... and I'll tell you why:
Most people try to purchase a home during the warmer months, with Real Estate in this area typically picking up around April all the way through late August and into early September (to get settled in before school starts). Most of us "locals" know where the high risk areas are but for first-time-buyers who are moving to a new city or relocation clients, it's a completely different story, which is why you should definitely consult a knowledgeable and experienced Realtor in the areas you are interested in.
During the summer, who would ever think that a beautiful, quiet canyon area with dry river beds would ever turn into a flood area with dangerous mud slides? Or even a home on a very "normal looking and level" street would turn into a "waterfront property"?
Granted, it is not the most convenient time to look for a home, but it will certainly open your eyes to certain aspects:
- Condition of the roof: If there is heavy rain, you will most definitely be able to spot a leak in the roof. Look for discolorations on the ceilings or of course the obvious bucket that is not there for decorative purposes.
- Check the bathrooms and any other drains: Do any of the toilets or drains seem like they are flooded or are holding excessive water? Do you notice a certain "eau de sewer" when touring the property?
- Is there water damage (discolorations and stains) to any of the floors or walls?
- Check the windows: Do any of them leak or allow water onto the window sill? If they are dual paned windows, is there water in between the panes?
- Check the back yard: Is there a large retaining wall? Does the neighbor behind you sit a lot higher up than you? If so, where is the water that's coming down the hill going to? Is this really a Koi pond or just accumulated water that had nowhere else to go?
- Check the drive-way: Is the property located on a downward slope? Where is the water coming down the street going to? Does it keep running along the street or does it create a pool in the drive-way?
- Rain gutters: Many structures in SoCal were not built with rain in mind - don't be surprised to see a home without rain gutters, it is actually very common here. However, check the soil/landscaping around the house where the water comes down off the roof. Are there huge puddles that could push the water into the walls?
- Basement: If you were lucky enough to find a house with a basement (yes, they are out there), be sure to check all the lower level rooms for any water damage.
- If you are already in Escrow on a property, you might want to take another look at it and definitely check the Natural Hazards Disclosure for any flood potential.
Another added advantage is that the seller will undoubtedly know that you are a serious buyer - who else would go out in this weather?!
So if you decide this is the right time for you to find a home, as with all extreme weather conditions - be safe! Listen to the authorities - if they are telling you to stay out of a particular area or neighborhood, stay out! Turn on your TV and watch the local news, they will inform you of the potential flood and mud slide areas - if those are conditions you would NOT WANT to affect your new home, no need to drive out there and get stuck, you can watch the mess on TV and tell your Realtor to steer clear of that area.
Enjoy the rain while it lasts, I'm sure we'll be back to 80 degrees and sunshine next week!
Sincerely,
Stephanie & Shirley
Your local Real Estate Experts
DRE # 01390458 & 01456658
www.SereneFoundations.com
Realtor® & Real Estate Consultant
Member Employee Relocation Council (ERC®)
Short Sale & Foreclosure Resource Certified (SFR)
Accredited Property Stager (ASP®)
