Home buying in the age of coronavirus might
seem impossible, but it just requires a different approach. By knowing what to
expect, you can come prepared as you hunt for your next house. Below, learn
what changes the pandemic has caused and discover what steps you’ll want to
take in order to find your dream house right now.
Changes
Brought on by the Pandemic
Like everything else, the COVID-19 pandemic
has disrupted the real estate industry in numerous ways. If you’re in the
market for a new house right now, here’s what you’ll want to think about.
●
Fewer people are buying houses
right now, but sellers might also be holding off on listing their homes due to
the virus, too. In any case, it might be a good time to buy if you have a down payment
saved up and a secure job.
●
Tours, open houses, and even
appraisals and estimates can be done remotely. Be prepared for video chat tours
using software like Zoom, Google Duo, or other platforms!
●
If you do need to tour a home in
person, just be safe. Be sure to practice social distancing, wash your hands before and
after the tour, and avoid touching your face.
What to
Do When Buying
Pandemic or not, buying a house is an exciting
time. However, you still have to take care of a few logistics after closing the
deal.
●
You can usually e-sign documents to close on your new home to
eliminate the need for in-person contact.
●
Home inspections are still
happening during the pandemic, but you might need to rely on virtual tools to
price out any repairs. Luckily, you can look up the repair cost for just about anything online.
●
You can also connect with
contractors to receive more detailed repair estimates. Some estimates can be done
virtually, so be sure to ask a contractor for this option!
Moving
and More
Moving is considered an essential service in
most places, so you can still go ahead with your plans. However, like
everything else, the process will look a bit different due to COVID-19.
●
Make a detailed plan for moving.
If you’re moving a long distance, pack lunches and snacks for the ride and plan out your stops to avoid unnecessary
contact.
●
The safest way to move is to do it
yourself by using your own vehicle or renting a truck online and
loading it up yourself.
●
If you take a DIY moving approach,
you might not be able to fit everything in one trip. Renting a storage unit is
a good solution. Some storage facilities offer touchless
rentals, which are perfect for the pandemic!
Buying a home during a pandemic might not be
easy, but it is possible. By using the right virtual tools and adapting to the
new ways of closing deals, you can still buy and move into your dream house
during COVID-19.
