CORONAVIRUS - HACKING THE WAY WE SELL REAL ESTATE

My heart goes out to people who have no choice but to sell their house during this uncertain pandemic. Social distancing has hampered our day-to-day lives making any task where welcoming strangers into our homes even more of a challenge then it was before this proverbial apocalypse. I’ve been speaking to colleagues and friends of the real estate industry gaining knowledge on the most effective way to help you get your house sold… from a distance.

REALTORS already utilize technology to make our lives easier. For example, we use conferencing tools like Zoom or Bluejeans to meet remotely if a person is in a different state, but now using Zoom will be the new norm. Zoom has been all over the news as of late as a great way to host online socials. Agents will switch to remote listing appointments using conferencing services like zoom to connect with you instead of sitting down at your kitchen table.

To sign agreements and contracts in general, a familiar signature tool such as Docusign will most likely be used instead of regular paper and pen. Plan on using it a lot more now that multiple people handling one paper has been forbidden.

Because of social distancing, we can’t exactly open your house to hoards of buyers for group showings. Virtual is the only way to go to be safe in my opinion. If a buyer would like to see the home, after a virtual tour, then C.A.R. (California Association Of REALTORS) Covid-19 best practices advise no more than two people are to be in the dwelling at the same time during a showing to observe social distancing guidelines.

Marketing your house will be the same, just from a distance. A virtual open house will replace a physical open house but showings are permitted with strict guidelines. The house will still be placed on the MLS, Social Media, Newspaper, etc.. The wording will be different to disclaim social distancing measures and such.

Moving and social distancing does NOT go hand-in-hand. So how does one move their belongings to their new home or storage even? The National Association Of REALTORS and the California Association Of REALTORS has amended the listing agreements to address closing concerns of Covid-19 taking into account unforeseen circumstances with an addendum that would allow for longer closing if both parties agree. My advice would be to start early or allow for extra time to close.

Anything I can do to help during this time or if you have questions, Please reach out.

Stay safe out there!