What you need to know about buying or selling during COVID-19

You might be sick of hearing about it-that-shall-not-be-named, but if you are considering buying or selling a home right now, you are likely still concerned about it. Real estate is considered an essential service, because everyone needs a place to live!

Here’s how to keep yourself safe:

Consider Virtual Showings or Online Open Houses

Limiting the number of people through a house is the biggest way for buyers and sellers to stay safe. You might be surprised at how many people are purchasing homes never having seen them in person. These types of showings have obviously taken off in the last year, and they are also a great way for buyers to weed out houses that don’t appeal to them, which in turn means that sellers aren’t vacating for showings that won’t result in a sale. It’s an unexpected win-win for everyone!

New Showing Etiquette

There are some pretty big changes in the way homes are being shown in person lately. Here are some things you can expect:

  • Sellers may be asked to leave the home early to allow the air to filter and particles to settle.
  • Buyers are required to wear masks and hand sanitize and keep as much distance as possible.
  • Realtors® will also wear gloves and will be the only person to touch any surfaces or handles in the home.
  • Buyers may be asked to limit the number of homes they visit in person per day.
  • Agents will not drive clients to properties, and will instead meet them there.
  • Agents may ask buyers to take notes and then discuss them after leaving the home to reduce time spent inside someone else’s space.

Inspections and Tradespeople

Most trades, cleaners, inspectors, and other home-related services are requesting that they be the only ones on the property during their assessments or work, and that follow up be done via Zoom or phone call.

Digital World

Not only have showings gone virtual, but paperwork has too! Now, this technology isn’t new, and has been widely used for years, although there were still some old-school agents who loved their folders and paper! Now you can expect for all contracts to be sent and signed via e-signature programs, and even lawyers and government programs have moved much of their paperwork to digital platforms.

Possession Day

Buyers are increasingly opting to move in after possession day, versus showing up at noon with a loaded U-Haul. More clients are also hiring professional cleaners before they move in. In addition to safety, it’s so nice to start a new home ownership journey with a spotlessly clean space!

I am dedicated to keeping my clients, happy, safe, and healthy! If there is anything I can do to make your home buying or selling journey more comfortable, please let me know. Thank you so much for reading, and I am always here to answer your real estate questions. Advice is always free.

Your Caring and Committed Realtor®

~ Wendy