Wednesday, January 6, 2016

4 Winter Home Hunting Hints

Think you have to wait until the weather warms up to begin searching for your new home at the Lake of the Ozarks? Think again. Today's savvy buyers are realizing that home hunting in the winter actually has some major advantages. For example:
  • You have fewer other buyers to compete against.
  • Sellers who list their homes during the winter months are generally more motivated to sell as quickly as possible.
  • Because there aren't any as many buyers competing for homes, home prices are typically lower.


If you have been thinking about buying a house at the Lake of the Ozarks, now is a great time to begin your search. Eagle's Nest Realty is here to help with these tried-and-true hints for house hunting in the winter.

Winter Home Hunting Tips

1. Check For Proper Insulation
Poor insulation can lead to costly energy bills. Fortunately, house hunting in the winter can offer valuable insight into your home's insulation situation. If there is snow on the ground, carefully look at the roof to determine if the snow there is melting faster than the snow on the ground. If the snow melts off of the roof more quickly, it may be a sign of poor attic insulation (which can ring up higher energy bills).

2. Evaluate The Curb Appeal
A snowy wonderland is a wonderful sight, but a drab, gray landscape is less than appealing. Take the time to carefully evaluate each home's outward appeal. If you find one you like in the winter, chances are you will absolutely love the way it looks when the weather warms up and everything turns green again.


3. Ask For Current Utility Information.
People who buy in the summer are sometimes blindsided by the first winter electric bill, but buying in the winter will protect you from that unpleasant surprise. Don't be afraid to ask your Lake of the Ozarks real estate agent to find out how much the current owners are paying to heat their home. You don't want to be caught off-guard by your first electric bill after moving in!

4. Evaluate The Area
With all the leaves on the trees out of the way, you'll be able to identify any privacy issues your prospective home may have and how well the neighbors care for their homes. Do the neighboring properties fall into a state of disrepair in the winter months? Are the roads plowed frequently? You'll be glad to have this type of information before making your purchase.

Buying This Winter? We Can Help!

If you are thinking about buying a house this winter, contact our experienced real estate team in Sunrise Beach MO. With an in-depth understanding of the Lake Area and real estate practices, we have the knowledge you need to make your home search a success. Contact us for more information!



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