Selling Your Home During Houston’s Hurricane Season

If you’re looking to sell your home fast in Houston, you’ve probably considered every factor that might affect the sale. One important thing that you can’t overlook is Houston’s hurricane season.

We all know that when those clouds start rolling in, the idea of selling a house can feel as chaotic as the weather itself.

But don’t worry!

With a little preparation and some know-how, selling during hurricane season might not be as tough as it seems. Not convinced? Keep on reading!

When is Houston’s Hurricane Season?

Houston’s hurricane season typically runs from June 1 to November 30, but that doesn’t mean we’re dodging storms every day of the season. However, these months do bring more rain, wind, and the occasional "hunker down" alert.

Now, this might sound intimidating if you’re trying to sell your home, but here’s the good news: buyers are still out there, rain or shine (or even a little wind). It’s just about knowing how to navigate the process, no pun intended.

Prep Your Home to Sell During Hurricane Season

Here’s how to highlight your home’s storm-proof features:

1. Highlighting Safety Features

If your home is equipped with hurricane shutters, impact-resistant windows, or a reinforced roof, now is the time to brag about it. These are huge selling points during hurricane season.

Most buyers are looking for homes that won’t require major upgrades just to withstand the next storm. A house with solid safety features can be a game-changer.

2. Spruce Up the Exterior

Hurricane season can make yards look like a mess, but don’t let that deter buyers. Make sure your lawn is well-maintained, trim any overhanging branches, and clean out gutters. You want to give the impression that your home is as ready for a storm as it is for a sunny afternoon.

A little tidying up can go a long way. Homes with excellent curb appeal can sell for 5-11% more, according to the National Association of Realtors. Even a small investment in landscaping can pay off big when it’s time to close.

3. Check for Insurance

Another big concern for buyers during hurricane season is insurance. If your home is in a flood zone or has been affected by hurricanes before, be prepared to answer questions about flood insurance.

While having flood insurance might not be the most exciting selling point, it’s a necessary one. Make sure your home is properly insured and share that information with potential buyers upfront. Transparency goes a long way.

And here’s a bonus: Homes with proper insurance documentation can often sell faster, because buyers don’t have to worry about jumping through extra hoops to get coverage. Professional real estate agents like Terra Digital Realty can help you with this. 

Selling During a Houston's Hurricane Season

If a hurricane does come through while your house is on the market, it’s not the end of the world—or the end of your sale. It just means you’ll need to take a few extra steps. Here are some of them: 

Document Any Damage

If your home sustains any damage from a storm, document everything. Take photos, note the repairs needed, and get estimates for fixing them. Some buyers may actually appreciate this transparency, knowing that you’re upfront about what needs work.

Make Quick Repairs

Focus on fixing any major issues quickly, especially if they’re safety-related, like roof damage or flooding. Buyers will be more interested in a house that’s move-in ready and safe.

Consider Price Adjustments

If a major hurricane affects your home or the surrounding area, you might need to adjust your price slightly to stay competitive in the market.

Don’t worry, though—Houston’s real estate market tends to bounce back quickly, even after storms. On average, home prices in hurricane-affected areas can recover in three to five months, according to a report by CoreLogic.

Working with a Local Real Estate Agent

Working with a local real estate agent who understands the nuances of Houston’s market (and the weather!) can make a world of difference. They’ll know how to navigate the unique challenges of selling during hurricane season and can guide you through each step with confidence.

Conclusion

Selling your home during Houston’s hurricane season doesn’t have to be stressful.  After all, if you can sell a house during hurricane season, you can sell it during any season.