We recently represented Frosty in the purchase of a new home for his Snowman family. Everything was going smoothly—until closing day.
The week before the closing, a heavy snowstorm blanketed the area. The sellers, who had moved out of the state ahead of the storm, assumed the snow would melt before closing day. Unfortunately, it didn’t.
On the morning of the final walkthrough, Frosty arrived at the property to find 3 inches of snow covering the walkway and driveway. Frosty was not feeling jolly about this and insisted that the sellers address the issue.
Here’s where things got tricky: the sellers were out of state, had no way to resolve the issue, and were unwilling to provide a credit. It seemed like the deal was about to fall apart.
How we Fixed it:
Thankfully, the listing agent – who happened to live nearby – stepped in to save the day.
The agent grabbed a snowblower, cleared the driveway and walkway, which turned frosty back into a jolly happy soul.
When you solve problems quickly, like in this case, your clients see you as a hero. Proactive advice on ground maintenance can prevent last-minute surprises and strengthen your reputation.
How to Avoid the Issue:
It’s important to ensure your clients understand their obligations under the contract.
Most variations of the Connecticut real estate contracts include a clause requiring the grounds to be maintained through the closing date.
This includes mowing the grass, raking the leaves, and yes – removing the snow.
Key Takeaway
Don’t let ground maintenance cost you a closing.
- Ensure sellers know their obligations under the contract.
- Have a backup plan for snow, leaves, and lawn care.
Partner with a reliable landscaper or snow removal service.
We can Assist You!
If you have questions or need assistance with a closing, don’t hesitate to reach out. And if you found this story helpful, please share it with your colleagues.
We’re here to help you ensure smooth and successful transactions for your clients!