The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted every aspect of our lives, including the housing market. While some people have put their buying or selling plans on hold, others are navigating the market with caution and creativity.
If you’re a buyer or seller, here are some tips to help you navigate the housing market during the pandemic.
For Buyers:
1. Be Prepared:
Before starting your search, get pre-approved for a mortgage. This will give you a clear idea of how much you can afford and help you jump on the right opportunity. As the pandemic has led to a shortage of available homes on the market, you’ll want to be ready to act quickly if you find the right property.
2. Virtual Viewing:
With social distancing measures in place, buyers can’t easily attend home viewings in person. But with virtual tours and interactive floor plans available on most real estate websites, you can get a sense of the property’s layout and features without setting foot inside.
3. Negotiate:
The pandemic has caused a shift in the market, and buyers are in a stronger position than they were just a few months ago. Be bold in your negotiations – sellers may be more flexible than they would have been pre-pandemic.
For Sellers:
1. Virtual Tours:
With social distancing measures in place, traditional open houses and showings are out of the question. However, virtual tours and 3D floor plans are a great way to showcase your property in a safe and interactive way.
2. Focus on the Home Office:
As remote work becomes more widespread, a home office is now a highly sought-after feature of any home. If your property has a designated office or nook, highlight it in your marketing materials.
3. Sanitization Protocols:
During the pandemic, buyers are concerned about safety and cleanliness. Make sure to clean and sanitize your home before and after any in-person showings, and provide hand sanitizer and heath safety kits to visitors.
In conclusion, the pandemic has brought significant changes to the housing market. If you’re buying or selling, it’s important to have a strategy in place and be prepared to adapt to the new market conditions. Whether virtually or in-person, safety should be a top priority for all involved in the transaction. By staying vigilant and taking advantage of the latest technologies and trends, buyers and sellers can successfully navigate the market and find their dream home.
