If you’ve been in Calgary this July – you’ve probably noticed one very consistent forecast:
rain.
A lot of it.
Whether it’s morning drizzle, afternoon downpours or sudden evening storms…. it feels like the sun’s been playing hard to get. And while this moisture might be great for our lawns and gardens (and farmers!), it’s definitely making waves in the real estate world – literally and figuratively.
*Fun Fact – While there have been very wet summers and specific months in Calgary’s history, The data available does NOT conclusively state that ANY summer has been the “rainiest” ever.
First, Let’s Talk Curb Appeal (Or the Lack of It)
Rain makes everything look a little… well soggier.
Listings that might normally shine – fresh flowers in every room, clean walkways, bright windows (with cleaning just done!) – are now dealing with muddy driveway marks (especially in new neighbourhoods!), soaked decks and gloomy grey skies in every photo. It’s harder to showcase that warm, welcoming exterior – when your front steps are slick and your backyard looks more like a pond. AND the “tone” of listing photos change inside as well – when you are looking out at GREY backgrounds. I am driving my photographers crazy – since I just won’t shoot new listings on cloudy or rainy days…which is VERY hard to predict!
And Then There’s the Physical Impact on the Homes Themselves
This is where things get REAL. Basements are a big topic of conversation right now. With the ground VERY saturated and more rain falling by the day, many homeowners (and potential buyers) are suddenly very aware of how well – or not so well – their drainage systems are working.
Whether it’s minor seepage or full-on basement floods, these issues can spook buyers or result in last-minute repair costs for sellers.
*CHECK on your vacant listings or homes your buyers are looking forward to moving into! Water is the enemy!!!!
We’re also seeing stress on the city’s stormwater infrastructure. Overflowing storm ponds and poor lot grading are leading to standing water in places it definitely shouldn’t be. For sellers, it’s become more important than ever to have things like downspouts, sump pumps and window wells in top shape. These aren’t just bonus features anymore – they’re deal makers (or breakers). Ask ANY buyer/seller who has had a home inspection – right after or during a HUGE rain!
Mood Matters Too
From a buyer’s perspective, rainy weather can cast a bit of a shadow – emotionally. Homes feel darker. People are cold, wet and distracted. Remember how most conversations start right now – with “what are your summer plans” – well it does not FEEL like summer!
It’s not exactly the vibe you want – when you’re trying to help someone fall in LOVE with a property. Even the best-staged home – can feel a little dreary when it’s grey and gloomy out.
Open houses have taken a hit too. Fewer people are venturing out – and those who do – often just want to get in and out quickly. First impressions count. This kind of weather doesn’t make it easy to create a memorable one!
So, What Can Sellers Do?
Prep, prep, prep. Make sure your property is weather-ready – gutters cleared, drains extended, windows sealed and everything looking as polished as possible – despite the weather. If you’ve taken steps to protect your home from water damage, now’s the time to highlight that. What used to be considered a “nice extra” is now something buyers are actively looking for!
During showings – EVERY light on. All window coverings OPEN – don’t try to “shut it out” – bring the beauty of nature in – regardless of outside weather!
BIG mats at front door – allow buyers and their agents to leave wet, muddy, dirty shoes in a safe place. NOBODY wants to create mess or damage when viewing!
And hey, not all is lost. All this rain has made Calgary exceptionally green and lush. Lawns have never looked better. That fresh scent after a storm? It’s real.
With a little creativity, you can still make your property shine! Just maybe bring an umbrella to the showing(s).
The Bigger Picture
Calgary has made huge strides in flood mitigation since 2013, but this year has been a reminder that extreme weather still poses a challenge – especially when it comes to selling a home. July’s been unusually wet, and it’s affecting everything – from how properties look and feel – to how buyers behave.
Important to note – RAIN doesn’t stop real estate.
It just changes how we navigate it.
With the right preparation and MINDSET, it’s absolutely possible to turn a soggy situation – into a strong sale. Plus if it looks good in rainy / dreary weather – it will look AMAZING when that sun pops out!