Quarantine measures and social distancing requirements have changed just about everything in our daily lives. If you’re in the market for a new house, you probably know this all too well. Even though COVID-19 has affected a lot about the home-buying process, it hasn’t changed the fact that people still want and need to move.
What to Expect When Buying a Home
Buying a house right now is much different than it was a few months ago. Here’s what has changed the most due to the pandemic:
- In many places, fewer homes are being listed because sellers are pulling back. However, this may be good news for your mortgage rates if you buy soon.
- Tours and open houses have gone virtual for the most part. Instead, many realtors are holding live video chat tours.
- Many home closings are being done virtually as well. Luckily, you can e-sign just about any real estate document!
- Buying during the pandemic is a lot like buying a home remotely, like you may do when moving across the country. People have been doing this for years, proving it is possible to buy a house without ever actually stepping inside!
Checking Out Homes Virtually
With so much technology available, you can find out just about everything you need to know about a home online or from a virtual tour. These tips can help.
- Before requesting virtual tours, do your research on the local market. It helps to know whether or not homes get multiple offers, and what they’re selling for.
- Get familiar with video calling apps. The last thing you’d want to do is miss out on your tour because your tech isn’t working! Most realtors can be flexible in using the app you’re most comfortable with.
- Even if you’re not seeing the home in person, the process is pretty similar. You should still ask your real estate agent good questions to learn about the property.
- You can also learn a lot about a home by researching its neighborhood. Crime, taxes, and transportation are important things to look into, and you can do that all from your couch!
You Closed the Deal – Now What?
The coronavirus pandemic has affected more than just the home-buying process. It has also changed moving procedures and other steps you may want to take after settling in.
- Follow the latest health guidance for traveling when moving day comes around.
- If you hire professional movers, ask them how they’re handling COVID-19 to keep their employees and clients safe.
- Once you settle in, be sure to deep-clean rooms and surfaces to kill any germs you might come in contact with.
Buying a house always comes with a few challenges, but COVID-19 has complicated things more for home buyers. Luckily, there are countless virtual tools at your fingertips to help research houses for sale and close on the home of your dreams remotely!
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