Winter is a magical time to showcase homes, with the charm of snow-covered rooftops and cozy interiors. But as beautiful as the season can be, it also brings unique safety challenges for both sellers and buyers. Whether you’re listing a home or showing one to potential buyers, taking precautions is essential to ensure everyone’s safety.
Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
1. Safe Access to the Property
Winter weather can make walkways and driveways slippery and hazardous. Sellers should ensure that all paths to the home, including driveways, walkways, and steps, are clear of snow and ice. Applying salt, sand, or ice melt can reduce the risk of slips and falls. For showings that take place in the evening, proper outdoor lighting is crucial to help visitors see icy patches or uneven surfaces.
Pro Tip for Agents: Always check the condition of the walkways before bringing buyers to the home. If you notice a safety issue, inform the seller or take temporary measures to mitigate the risk.
2. Keep the Interior Safe and Clean
Tracking in snow, slush, and salt can be messy and create slippery floors. Sellers can place a mat or rug near the entrance for shoes and boots and provide a designated spot for visitors to leave their footwear. It’s also a good idea to have a shoe rack or disposable booties available to keep floors clean and safe.
Pro Tip for Sellers: Check that indoor mats are non-slip to prevent accidental falls.
3. Maintain Safe Heating Practices
Homes on the market should be warm and inviting, but sellers should also be cautious about heating systems. Avoid using space heaters in rooms where showings occur, as they can pose fire and tripping hazards. For homes with fireplaces, make sure they are properly maintained and that any fires are fully extinguished after use.
Pro Tip for Agents: If you’re hosting an open house, keep an eye on the thermostat and ensure the home is at a comfortable temperature without overheating.
4. Monitor Indoor and Outdoor Visibility
Shorter daylight hours and unpredictable weather can limit visibility for buyers viewing a property. Sellers should make sure all outdoor lighting is functional, especially around entrances and garages. Inside, keep curtains open during the day to maximize natural light and turn on ample lighting in all rooms to brighten the space.
Pro Tip for Buyers: Encourage your clients to bring flashlights if a showing extends into the evening, as winter’s early sunsets can make certain areas harder to navigate.
5. Protect Pipes and Plumbing
In colder temperatures, frozen pipes are a concern. Sellers should ensure all pipes are insulated and that interior temperatures are consistently warm to prevent freezing. Dripping faucets can also signal to buyers that there’s a winter-related issue with the plumbing, so regular checks are a must.
Pro Tip for Agents: If you notice cold rooms or exposed pipes during a showing, advise sellers to address these concerns to avoid potential problems.
6. Emergency Preparedness
Winter weather is unpredictable, so it’s wise to have a plan in case of severe snowstorms or power outages. Sellers should have flashlights, extra batteries, and backup heating options ready. Buyers touring rural properties or homes in remote areas should ensure their vehicles are equipped with winter tires and emergency kits.
Pro Tip for Everyone: Always check the weather forecast before scheduling showings, and avoid booking during severe conditions.
7. Be Flu-Conscious
Winter also coincides with flu season, so hygiene and sanitation remain important. Sellers should have hand sanitizer available for buyers during showings.
As always, a little extra effort goes a long way in making the process safe, enjoyable, and successful for all parties involved.
