Hurricane Season & Houston Real Estate

June marks the official start of hurricane season in Houston, and while we all hope for calm weather, it’s important for homeowners—and future homeowners—to be prepared. Whether you're buying, selling, or just staying put, here's how hurricane season affects real estate in the Bayou City and what steps you can take to stay protected.

Why Hurricane Season Matters in Real Estate

Houston’s location near the Gulf Coast means we're no strangers to tropical storms and heavy rainfall. For real estate, this can impact everything from insurance requirements to the closing timeline.

For Buyers:

• Flood Zones & Insurance: Make sure to check whether a property lies in a flood zone and how that affects your insurance premiums. Lenders often require flood insurance in high-risk areas.

• Inspection Awareness: A thorough home inspection should include drainage and roofing. Don’t hesitate to ask about the property's flood history or any preventive upgrades.

• Timing Is Key: If a named storm is in the Gulf, insurance companies may put a temporary freeze on issuing new policies—potentially delaying closings.

For Sellers:

• Disclose Flood History: Transparency builds trust. If your home has experienced water intrusion or has been flood-mitigated, disclose it—and highlight any upgrades you've made.

• Prepare the Property: Trim trees, clear gutters, and check grading. It’s not just about safety—it’s curb appeal, too.

• Be Flexible: Understand that weather events may delay showings, open houses, or closings. A little patience goes a long way.

Tips for All Homeowners

• Review your homeowner’s and flood insurance policies annually.

• Install or inspect sump pumps and French drains.

• Stock up on storm-prep essentials (batteries, water, tarps, etc.).

• Consider upgrading to impact-resistant windows or adding storm shutters.

Bottom Line:

Hurricane season doesn’t stop the Houston real estate market—but it does remind us how important it is to be proactive. Whether you're buying your dream home or preparing to sell, planning for extreme weather can help you protect your investment and your peace of mind.