Going forward with a real estate transaction during the coronavirus might feel risky, but we’re here to reassure you that with the right precautions, you can still safely and confidently do so. Whether you want to sell your home or purchase a new one, it’s pertinent that you stay informed and proactive now. People are experiencing the effects of social distancing in one way or another and having to find ways to go about their lives without having to interact with people face to face.
In terms of real estate, there are a lot of ways that the spring market will differ from what was originally expected. We want to provide you with some tips on how you, either a buyer or seller, can stay proactive during this time.
Take advantage of social media
Summer is usually a great time for outdoor activities and enjoying the warmer weather. However, with the stay at home orders in place, people are resorting to scrolling through social media and browsing the internet to help pass the time. Because people are online more often, now is a good time to come up with a strategy.
If you want to sell your home, be consistent with updating your video listings and posting about it. We also recommend using a variety of platforms to help increase your reach. Make sure your posts have great pictures and high-quality real estate videos that are engaging enough. Additionally, it helps to work with a real estate agent who is also social media savvy.
If you want to sell your home, be consistent with updating your listing and posting about it. We also recommend using a variety of platforms to help increase your reach. Make sure your posts have great pictures and are engaging. Additionally, it helps to work with a real estate agent who is also social media savvy.
On the other end, if you’re a buyer, take the time to find houses that really hit the mark for you. During this time, the market is less competitive, leaving you with more wiggle room to choose a home without rushing to sign on it.
Schedule a virtual showing
One of the most important steps in either buying or selling a house is a showing. Showings allow people to get a good look at the house and have almost always been done in person. To help stop the spread of the virus, many people are participating in virtual showings. If you’re wondering how to tour a house during coronavirus, you can do one or several of the following:
- Create or request a pre-recorded tour that is professional and can showcase the house room by room.
- Create or a 3D interactive virtual tour. This allows the user to see parts of the house from different points of view using a special camera.
- Complete a live showing which is more personal and allows the buyer to get a more tailored view of the house.
These different types of showings all come with their own pros and cons. Some good selling tips during coronavirus also include a virtual open house which can be done via Instagram Live or Facebook Live. Talk to your Realtor about what would work best for you!
Get an alternative appraisal
Most Chicagoans in the past would go with a physical inspection or appraisal before signing off on a house. During the pandemic, the Federal Housing Agency is temporarily allowing alternative, or remote, appraisals of houses. An appraiser can make an estimate either from doing research on the local market and history of the home or from photographs and videos taken of the home from either the homeowner or real estate agent.
Stay optimistic
Things are feeling scary and uncertain, but we will persevere. Solano County Homes wants to be there for you every step of the way. If you have questions, comments, or concerns on how to tackle buying or selling a house during the pandemic, contact us today.
For more on COVID-19 and the real estate comeback, check out HomeLight’s Top Agent Insight Survey from Q2.
