Tips for Buying a New Home During the Coronavirus

August 19, 2020

Photo via Rawpixel

Tips for Buying a New Home During the Coronavirus

An article by Guest Contributor Katie Conroy of AdviceMine.com

Buying a new home during the coronavirus pandemic doesn’t have to be as difficult as it may seem. You can still go house hunting even if you can’t leave your home. Thanks to virtual tools and digital services like video tours and e-closings, you might even be able to complete your entire home purchase without physically stepping foot in your new home. Since this is a new concept to many people, we’ve collected some great resources to help you get your bearings.

How Has Home Buying Changed?

Personal health concerns and physical distancing guidelines have caused many changes to the real estate market. Make sure you understand how these changes will affect your home-buying process.

  • While you can still buy a home during the coronavirus, it’s important to reevaluate your financial situation to ensure this is still a good time for your big purchase.

  • Keep in mind that your housing search will pivot from open houses and showings to virtual home tours.

  • If your home inspection reveals issues with the property, such as a faulty air conditioner, you can search for repair estimates online instead of meeting with contractors in person.

  • You might be able to complete your home purchase online through digital closing platforms like Snapdocs.

  • Many home-buying contracts now include a coronavirus clause that allows for greater flexibility in the closing timeline.

  • To learn more about buying a home in Phoenix during COVID-19, contact a skilled and dedicated realtor from West USA Realty.

Getting the Most Out of Virtual Showings

Virtual home showings have become incredibly useful during the pandemic. However, it can be difficult for home buyers to know what to look for during these video tours.

  • Opt for a live video-chat tour over a pre-recorded tour so you can interact with your agent and ask them important questions.

  • You want to view the home from every angle, right down to the nitty-gritty details.

  • Ask your agent to open cupboards, cabinets, and closets so you can get a sense of the home’s storage space.

  • Make sure your agent includes a video tour of the home exterior. It’s easy to forget about the outdoor space when you’re not there to explore the property in person.

Navigating Your Move Safely

Once you’ve finally found the perfect home and successfully navigated the buying process, it’s time to plan your move! Take extra steps to keep your family safe when moving during COVID-19.

  • Use moving apps to keep track of your boxes and coordinate your move to ensure everything goes as smoothly as possible.

  • If you’re moving locally, try to move as much stuff as you can on your own so you can reduce your contact with moving professionals.

  • Before hiring movers, ask about the precautions they have put in place to minimize the risk of spreading the coronavirus.

  • Clean and sanitize your possessions before and after your move to avoid transmitting the virus into your new home.

Don’t wait for the end of the pandemic to find your dream home. Take advantage of the tools that are available to you to continue your house hunt from a safe distance. Find a great real estate agent, request a video tour, and take special precautions on moving day. These extra steps might feel like a lot of work, but remember, the health and safety of you and your family is your top priority!