Irene Leaves Mark On Real Estate Market

It has been nearly a week since tropical storm Irene passed through the area, but its effects continue to linger — particularly in the local real estate market.

Real estate professionals from across Rhode Island explained that they are left dealing with additional complications in an already difficult housing market.

Fredda Korber, of Residential Properties, described a great deal of tree damage in Barrington and the East Bay, which caused power outages — and problems with open houses and showings.

Most of the agents were not showing property during these days [following the storm]. We, as agents, like to set the stage for a successful showing — this involves arriving at least 10 minutes before a scheduled appointment, opening blinds, and turning on lights, said Korber in an e-mail. "Also, we advise our sellers to have the landscaping as manicured as possible. Therefore, the storm did hamper our showings!"