Host: Shelly Winter Expert: Deborah Morton, Founder & Owner, Clario Real Estate

Summary

Deborah walks through real-world next steps for buyers and sellers after the recent hurricane: flooded basements, roof damage, trees down, contracts, insurance, lender reinspections, and how to keep a deal on track. She also shares quick fixes that protect foundations and reduce future risk.

What we covered

• Active listings hit by storms: Who pays, what to fix first, and how to keep pricing and timelines intact.
• Under contract and damaged: Sellers must deliver the home in the same condition as when you went under contract. Use the final walk-through, document changes, and renegotiate or delay closing if needed.
• Cash vs financing: With financing, lenders may require a reinspection in declared disaster zones before releasing funds.
• Basements and water: Sump pumps should have battery backups. Look for efflorescence, visible water lines, and grading issues.
• Trees and curb appeal: Balancing charm with risk. When an arborist says a mature tree is failing, removal before listing may save a future claim.
• Gutters and grading: Simple upgrades like downspout extensions and correct slope away from the foundation prevent repeat problems.
• Vendor triage: Roofers, plumbers, and water remediation pros matter. Lean on your agent’s vetted list.

Caller highlights

• Kate, Atlanta: Vacant, bank-owned neighbor’s tree fell across her fence. Response may be slow; the bank is responsible. Deborah offered to connect resources.
• Joe, Augusta: Storm hit just before closing. A second inspection is wise, and the closing attorney should confirm contract obligations.
• Ken: Confirmed that sellers are responsible for storm damage prior to closing.
• Linda, Dunwoody: Streaking on a 15-year roof is often cosmetic. Cleaning methods can damage shingles. Get a roofer’s evaluation before listing.
• Steve, Norcross: Gun safe removed before closing. Check the Seller’s Property Disclosure and ensure all fixtures or personal property are clearly included in the contract.

Quick checklist

Sellers

• Photograph damage, file the claim, and start remediation quickly.
• Ask your agent to align scope, timing, and any credit with your buyer.
• Bring proof of repairs to the final walk-through.

Buyers

• Re-inspect after any significant storm.
• Verify sump pump backup, gutter discharge, and lot grading.
• Use the contract’s condition clause to address new damage.

Need help or vendor referrals?

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