When most people think about touring homes in Arizona, they picture sunny skies and beautiful mountain views, and that’s usually what sellers and their agents want, too. After all, Arizona real estate shows best under bright blue skies and golden light. But if you’re a buyer looking to truly understand how a home lives, the best time to look might actually be when it’s raining.
Why Rainy Days Reveal the Truth About a Home
Because we don’t get much rain here in Arizona, precipitation tends to bring out issues you won’t see otherwise. It’s during a storm that you’ll discover how well a property handles water and whether there are any red flags hiding behind that fresh paint or beautiful landscaping.
Here’s what you can learn from a rainy-day showing:
- Drainage and topography: Watch how water flows around the property. Does it drain away from the home, or pool near the foundation? Poor drainage can lead to erosion, flooding, or long-term structural concerns.
- Roof performance: Rainy days expose roof leaks that might not show up otherwise. Especially after a long dry stretch, the first storm can reveal weak spots or failing seals.
- Flat roof quirks: Many Arizona homes have flat roofs, and during a downpour, you might see signs of moisture near vents or ceiling edges. This doesn’t always mean there’s a roof leak; sometimes it’s just wind-driven rain sneaking in through vent openings. Still, it’s a helpful reminder that even good roofs can show weather-related imperfections.
Why Sellers Prefer Sunshine (and Why Buyers Shouldn’t)
It’s no surprise that sellers and their agents love sunny days. Homes sparkle in natural light, the curb appeal is at its peak, and buyers can imagine themselves enjoying Arizona’s famous weather. But as a buyer, you’re not just shopping for beauty—you’re investing in the bones and integrity of the property. Touring during or right after rainfall gives you a rare opportunity to see the home at its “worst”, which is exactly what you want before making one of the biggest purchases of your life.
A Little Mud is Worth It
Yes, rainy-day showings can be messy. Tracking in water or dirt isn’t ideal for anyone involved, but if it helps you discover that a roof leaks, a yard floods, or that the lot slopes the wrong way, it’s worth every muddy footprint. If you happen to be under contract and it rains before closing, that’s the perfect time to schedule your home inspection. It allows your inspector to evaluate the property in conditions that reveal more than a sunny day ever could.
The Bottom Line
While sunshine sells homes, rain reveals them. And in Arizona, where storms are few and far between, those rare rainy days are worth taking advantage of. If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home and want to work with a knowledgeable, detail-oriented Realtor who looks out for your best interests through every step of the process, contact Erica Anderson today. Whether you’re preparing to list your home or searching for your dream property, she’ll help you navigate Arizona’s unique housing market with confidence.
