My SoCal Dream Team
Realtors, MRP, VAREP
Realty Executives Dillon
The spread of the Corona Virus has forced a culture of change in the Real Estate business; many of our tried and true practices as Realtors have fallen away. Client events, live training, caravans, door knocking, Open Houses, property flyers, client meetings at the office, handshakes, and hugs are no longer part of our days.
For now, only employees are allowed to go to the disinfected office. And masks, gloves, shoe coverings, and sanitizer are the new tools of our trade. Most communication with clients and each other is limited to video call, Docusign, email, and group texts. And now, in order to limit exposure to Covid-19, working from home has become routine.
Close contact with clients and information sharing is at the core of every transaction. Though some of us prefer face to face connection, we have the tools to reach each other virtually and we are making do.
Pictures and virtual tours are as important as ever; even more so now. Staging houses to look their best, pricing them right, and making them accessible for showings is still crucial for Sellers. Having Buyers fully qualified and pre-approved is as vital as it ever was. No one wants curious Buyers wandering around just to “see what’s out there” during a pandemic.
Home Inspectors, contractors, and other service providers are still a large part of the process. They enter each home at their own risk and use the Covid-19 protocols assigned to their profession.
Housing demands in California are high and inventory is very low at the moment, so Sellers can expect a lot of activity and perhaps multiple offers after only a few days of showings.
In order to contain the risk of exposure to the virus, many listing agents are scheduling showings 15-30 minutes apart over just a few days to get as many buyers through in as short amount of time as possible. Houses are sanitized before and after each showing and hand sanitizer is left at the door for people to use as they enter.
Interior doors are left open and lights are left on so that everyone can avoid touching knobs, handles, switches, etc. Windows are left open so air can circulate.
Interest rates are at an all-time low at the moment so it’s an excellent time for serious, qualified House Hunters to find their next purchase. Buyers Agents guide their clients to start their search online and only arrange to view the properties they are truly considering.
Showing property on short notice is nearly impossible. For each property Buyers view they must sign a 4-page document stating, among other things, that they have not knowingly been in contact with anyone afflicted with Covid-19 within the last 14 days, that they are not experiencing a fever or any signs of respiratory illness, and that they are entering the property at their own risk. This document must be electronically signed and delivered to the Listing Agent before the appointment is made.
In some cases, the Listing Agent will also require a copy of a pre-approval letter and proof of funds before the showing is allowed.
Even with the new restrictions, Buyers are motivated to move, and Sellers are anxious to make the change.
Many families have discovered that their homes are not suitable for these times. They may want to move up so there is more space to stay at home. They may have discovered it’s time to downsize and simplify to prepare for what may come next.
Even though so much has changed, the process of home buying is much the same as it’s been. It’s our job to guide and protect our clients through it.
