Despite the Covid-19 pandemic, real estate isn’t showing signs of slowing down any time soon. People will always need to move, and many are still choosing to invest during this unprecedented time. This piece is targeted at people looking to buy or sell property in a pandemic.
The real estate industry has been steadily moving online for years now, and even more so during the pandemic. According to Zillow home trends expert Amanda Pendleton, real estate is now a digital-first transaction, and if you want to stay ahead, you must consider incorporating technology.
A word that used to be important is now paramount, that is safety. We all must consider health risks for ourselves and others while still accomplishing our real estate goals. Let’s explore some tips to buy or sell property in a pandemic while still remaining Covid-conscious and keeping your peace of mind.
Amplify Your Online Presence
As mentioned above, real estate is becoming a digital-first business. Almost all first-time homebuyers are beginning their property search online. As a seller, you want to be sure you are facilitating that.
List your property on credible real estate websites, post high-res photos on Instagram, or encourage family and friends to share your listing on Facebook. There is no longer an excuse for your property to not have an online presence, whether you’re a professional seller or not.
If you’re buying a home, consider these trends as well. Many real estate agents have Instagram and Facebook pages that make browsing listings easy and fun.
Explore New Technology
If you already have a website and social media presence, it’s time to think beyond Facebook and explore new technology.
There are technologies like Materport where you can create a virtual reality experience and immerse guests in your listing. This allows potential buyers to view existing homes, tour new properties before construction is completed, or visualize their own belongings in the space with customizable features. VR creates an emotional reaction in the buyer and is a great alternative to an in-person viewing.
Or, consider investing in a drone. Many top real estate photographers now offer this service to their expert Realtor clients. Shooting drone footage of the home and neighborhood is a great way to give buyers a new perspective of the property without breaking the bank.
Don’t Forget The Office Space
Does your property have an office, library, or study? Since many are still working from home, it is wise to consider the office space. It doesn’t have to be a separate room; even staging the home to feature an office area in the living room could help you seal your post-pandemic sale.
Alternatively, if you are buying a home this is something you need to consider. Are you planning on going back to the office this year? If you’re still working from home or you’re moving into a hybrid model, don’t invest in a house without a home office area.
Engage With Others Online
Whether you’re buying or selling, there has never been a better time to reach out to others online for help, advice, or critique. No matter where you’re at in your journey, there is an endless amount of resources at your disposal.
Whether you’re a realtor looking to network with other professionals or a first-time buyer looking to obtain a property investment loan online, the ability to educate yourself with online resources is a game-changer in the world of real estate.
Stage Homes Thoughtfully
If you’re relying on mostly online advertising and communication, it’s all the more important that the in-person tour goes well. Stage your home thoughtfully and make sure everything is in order. Buyers are likely looking at fewer homes in person. This means homeowners and their Realtors need to show the property in its best light to get the highest sale price.
Whether you are a family looking to upgrade your first home, a property investor looking for tenants, or a seasoned agent wondering how you’ll relate to clients post-Covid, this has undeniably been a stressful year to be involved in real estate. Want to sell property in a pandemic? Prioritize safety, use new tech and engage people online.
