Tips for Touring Homes During Cold Weather
Winter in Wisconsin brings snow-covered streets, cozy fires, and—believe it or not—great opportunities for homebuyers! While many people assume spring and summer are the best times to house hunt, winter can actually offer some serious advantages.
Fewer buyers mean less competition, motivated sellers, and a chance to see how a home holds up against the cold. But before you grab your hot cocoa and head out for a showing, keep these winter house-hunting tips in mind!
1. Bundle Up and Dress for Comfort
Let’s be honest—touring homes in freezing temperatures isn’t as easy as it is in warmer months. But with the right gear, you can stay warm and focused!
Wear warm layers so you can adjust to temperature changes as you move from outside to inside.
Opt for comfortable, non-slip shoes or boots to navigate icy driveways and sidewalks safely.
Bring gloves that are easy to remove—you’ll want to test doors, windows, and faucets without fumbling with bulky mittens.
Pack an extra pair of socks if you’ll be asked to remove your shoes inside!
2. Pay Close Attention to the Heating System
Nothing’s worse than stepping into a freezing house during a showing! A properly functioning heating system is critical in Wisconsin, so take note of how the home feels.
Is the heat consistent throughout the home, or are some rooms colder than others?
Ask about the age and maintenance history of the furnace or boiler.
Check thermostats and vents—are they evenly placed throughout the home?
If the home has a fireplace, confirm whether it’s functional and energy-efficient or just decorative.
3. Check for Drafts and Insulation Issues
Winter is the perfect time to spot drafts that could drive up energy bills. Here’s how to do a quick insulation check:
Run your hand along windows, doors, and baseboards—feeling cold air could mean poor insulation.
Look for frost buildup on windows, which could indicate leaks or outdated panes.
Ask about past heating bills to get a sense of energy efficiency.
Inspect the attic insulation (if possible)—a well-insulated attic prevents heat loss and reduces heating costs.
4. Assess the Roof, Gutters, and Drainage
Snow and ice can be tough on a home’s exterior, but that also means winter is a great time to spot potential problem areas.
Look for ice dams or icicles—these can signal poor insulation or ventilation.
Check the roofline for uneven snow melt—this could indicate heat escaping through the attic.
Examine the gutters and downspouts—are they properly directing water away from the foundation?
If possible, ask about the age of the roof and when it was last inspected.
5. Visualize the Outdoor Space
With everything covered in snow, it’s easy to overlook the yard, patio, or driveway. But don’t let winter fool you—make sure to ask about the home’s outdoor potential!
Request photos from warmer months to see what the landscaping and exterior look like.
Ask about the condition of the driveway and walkways—are they prone to ice buildup?
Consider sunlight exposure—a south-facing backyard might get more winter sunshine, making it a better long-term fit.
6. Take Note of Snow Removal and Accessibility
Wisconsin winters can bring heavy snowfalls, so it's important to factor in snow removal and driveway maintenance before buying.
Ask about plowing and maintenance services—does the neighborhood provide snow removal, or is it the homeowner’s responsibility?
Check for steep driveways—these can become icy hazards in winter.
Look at walkways and entryways—are they easy to navigate after a snowfall?
7. Consider Winter Market Advantages
House hunting in winter isn't just about dealing with the cold—there are some unique buyer advantages too!
Less competition means fewer bidding wars and more negotiating power.
Sellers are often more motivated, especially if they need to move quickly.
Contractors and inspectors may have more availability, speeding up the closing process.
You’ll see exactly how the home handles extreme weather, giving you confidence in its durability.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Winter Stop You!
While house hunting in winter requires a little extra preparation, it can also be a great opportunity to find your dream home with less stress and more negotiating power. Plus, moving in winter means you'll be settled and ready to enjoy your home just in time for spring!
So, if you're thinking about buying a home this season, don't let the cold hold you back. Bundle up, grab a warm drink, and let’s find you the perfect place to call home!
Thinking about buying this winter? Let's chat! I’d love to help you find the right home—snow and all! ⛄🏡