In many markets, fall can be a busy time for real estate professionals. With cooler temperatures and the back-to-school rush over, buyers may be inclined to focus on making a move, and sellers may be motivated to wrap up transactions before the end of the year. Here are some things you can do to be ready this fall for cool weather and cool deals:
- Stock your car with extra jackets or layers, plus gloves and hats, for unexpected temperature drops while you’re out in the field. Put in a couple of extra coats or sweaters for clients to borrow when you’re showing new construction that may not be heated or when the weather changes suddenly. Keep spare umbrellas for unexpected showers, too.
- Remind sellers that, even though growing season may be coming to an end, lawn care and exterior maintenance are still important and will help make their listing attractive to potential buyers. Regular leaf and debris removal, gutter cleaning, and flower bed maintenance can increase curb appeal and make a nice first impression.
- For showings, plan to arrive at your listings early enough to ensure the temperatures are comfortable in the home and bump up the heat a little if needed. Prospective buyers will likely stay longer if they are warm and cozy and will be reassured that the home’s systems are in good working order.
- Stock up on gift cards from your favorite local coffee shop. Everybody appreciates a hot beverage in the fall and winter months, and nominal gift cards can be a great way to say “thank you” to clients, colleagues, and business partners. Keep a stash of gift cards in your wallet and vehicle for those times when you’d like to express your appreciation or wish to brighten someone’s day.
- Have your vehicle serviced. As a real estate professional, you depend on reliable transportation to get you to appointments and showings in a timely manner. Ask the technician to check all the fluids and to make sure the heater is in working order. It’s also important to check the tires for tread wear and pressure to make sure they are safe to operate on fall and winter roads. The brakes should be inspected, as well as lights and bulbs. It’s also a good time to check the wiper blades for wear or deterioration and to replace them if needed. Consider going ahead with an oil change to save time and another visit to the mechanic later.
Fall is also a good time to remind your buyers and sellers about the value of HSA home warranty coverage. Heating system malfunctions can be among the most expensive household repairs without the budget protection that home warranty coverage provides. For more information about the value and reliability that HSA home warranty protection offers, talk to your HSA Account manager or visit onlinehsa.com today.
See the plan contract at onlinehsa.com coverage details, including service fees, limitations and exclusions. Charges for non-covered items may apply.