The Central Ohio area is ranked among the most desirable places to live to avoid major climate disasters, according to the 2024 Realtor.com Housing and Climate Risk Report. But no area of the U.S. is immune from extreme weather, and insurance policies are becoming more expensive. For these reasons, Central Ohio home buyers should consider a home’s weather resilience when evaluating properties. Here’s a few things to look for!
1. Flood and drainage protection. Check FEMA flood maps to see if the property is in a flood-prone area. Risk factors vary widely from one Central Ohio location to another.
The topography of a residential parcel should be considered against neighboring properties. Storms can produce water runoff from nearby highways or paved developments. Inspecting the home’s basement or crawlspace can reveal prior water issues. Homes with elevated foundations, sump pumps and proper drainage are better protected from flood risks.
If a home is not located in a FEMA flood zone, you still have the option of purchasing flood insurance. Flood damage is not included in standard home insurance coverage!
2. Heat Resilience. In the past decade, Central Ohio has experienced more summer days with temperatures above 90°F. Warming trends are expected to continue in the years ahead. Look for homes with good insulation, good attic ventilation, light-colored exteriors and roofs, healthy shade trees, and energy-efficient cooling systems. Low-maintenance landscaping that reduces water use is another plus.
3. Storm-Resistant Features. Rough weather wears down roofing over time. Homes with old roofing can mean higher insurance premiums, reduced coverage, or both! Homes that have newer roofing, high-quality windows and steel doors are better equipped against storms. Impact-resistant roofing and windows should be considered if you make upgrades to the home.
Basements provide important shelter from tornadoes, but basements with an egress window are even better! Egress windows provide an emergency escape if the stairs become blocked.
We have many more suggestions for finding well-built, quality homes! Find out more with our free e-book, “How to Buy a Home like a Pro!“
As Exclusive Buyer’s Brokers, we serve your best interests at all times! Unlike real estate agents and brokerages who represent sellers, as an Exclusive Buyer’s Broker, we only represent you, the buyer, getting you the best price and terms with no conflict of interests.
Understanding this distinction could literally save you thousands of dollars not only on the purchase price and terms, but also on seller concessions and home inspection issues, whether you are a first-time homebuyer or an experienced homeowner!
Contact us with your home buying questions! Remember, we are with you every step of the way…all the way home!
Andrew Show
Exclusive Buyer’s Broker, CEBA-M, MCNE, CSP, PSA,e-PRO, CREM, ABRM, AHWD
Buyer’s Resource Realty Services www.BuyersHome.com
Serving Metro Columbus, Ohio with Exclusive Buyer’s Agents
7100 North High Street, Suite 204, Worthington, Ohio 43085
614-888-4110 | 888-888-4110 Toll Free | 614-839-4110 Fax
