Buying a Home This Winter? Beware of What Might be Hiding Under that Blanket of Snow

COLUMBUS, Ohio - The cold and snowy months of winter can present numerous challenges to current and future homeowners alike. With a blanket of snow currently covering much of the state, the Ohio Department of Commerce's Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing (REPL) is sharing tips to guide Ohioans through their winter home search to help ensure they make smart decisions and avoid common, and potentially costly, pitfalls.

According to data from Ohio REALTORS, there were more than 36,200 homes sold from December 2023 to March 2024, which is a 3% increase from the same period the previous year.

"Shopping for a home during the colder months has both benefits and drawbacks," said REPL Superintendent Daphne Hawk. "Fewer buyers can mean less competition and more time for you to weigh your options. In addition, sellers may be more willing to negotiate price and terms during the winter than during the busy summer selling season. However, purchasing a home during the winter can be risky, especially given the unpredictability of the season. That's why it's important to not let weather conditions put you at a disadvantage when evaluating whether the home meets your needs and living standards."

While a home inspection is strongly encouraged, homebuyers are reminded that home inspectors can only inspect readily accessible areas of the house or use non-invasive equipment for further inspection. In other words, they can only inspect what they can see, which means they are not expected to find issues hidden by snow and ice on the property. To help ensure any potential issues are spotted, such as roof damage, make every attempt to schedule your home inspection for when conditions are more ideal.

When walking through a home, use the cold weather to your advantage. Winter weather can reveal key details and flaws about a home that might go unnoticed during warmer seasons. Take this opportunity to identify potential issues that could cause headaches, chilly nights and expensive utility bills down the line.

• Check insulation and energy efficiency: A warm home is a happy home during the winter. As you walk through a home, pay attention to potential drafts around windows or doors, uneven heating, or cold walls. These can signal poor insulation, which could mean higher energy bills and less comfort, as well as a potential costly project in the future to resolve those issues. A well-insulated home is an investment in long-term savings.
• Inspect the heating system: The heating system is one of the most critical features of a home during the winter, which is why it's important the furnace or heating unit is both functional and efficient. When you're ready to move forward with a property, make sure to have a licensed professional thoroughly inspect the system. Repairs or replacements can sometimes cost thousands of dollars, so catching potential problems early can save you big bucks and uncomfortably cold evenings.
• Consider snow removal and accessibility: Snow-covered driveways and walkways may look charming, but think about practicality. Who is responsible for snow removal? Are the streets in the area plowed regularly? Consider whether you'll need to budget for snow removal services.

"With preparation, some expert advice, and a good inspector by your side, you'll be ready to turn a house into your home - snow and all," said Hawk.

To find a licensed home inspector, use the Division's License Lookup tool or ask your real estate agent for recommendations. Your agent should be able to provide the names of at least three licensed professionals to help you make an informed choice.

For more information, visit the Consumers Section on the Division's website at com.ohio.gov/real. Check out the Division's homebuyers checklists to ensure you are familiar with the all steps and necessary documentation for a smoother process.

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Daphne Hawk, Superintendent, Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing, Ohio Department of Commerce

(:08-:42) - Benefits of buying a home during the winter.

(:46-1:15) - Limitations of home inspectors.

(1:20-1:41) - Requesting a longer inspection period if there is snow and ice on property.

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The Division of Real Estate & Professional Licensing is a state agency within the Ohio Department of Commerce. The Division licenses and regulates real estate brokers and sales associates who conduct business in Ohio. It ensures the professional competency of licensees and enforces fair business practices throughout the industry.

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