Even during the time of COVID-19, real estate transactions go on. Buyers and sellers still need to move, and the industry is looking for new ways to accommodate both the needs of the transaction and, of course, the safety of everyone.
Many traditional real estate activities can be performed virtually. While no one is suggesting that a buyer will be comfortable buying a home they have only seen during a Zoom visit, they can minimize the number of homes they physically visit by pre-screening these homes ahead of time through virtual tours.
There are a few vital pieces of the transaction that require in-person visits, however. Among these are home inspections and appraisals. Both of these professionals need access to the property to properly perform their duties, and it leaves some potential home sellers and buyers wondering if it’s even possible to conclude a real estate transaction right now.
While everyone should cautiously move forward according to their personal sense of comfort, there are a few things you can do to protect yourself, your family, and the professionals while they are in your home. Before setting the appointments, think through the parts of your home the inspector or appraiser will need to access and think through the process.
Have your real estate professional contact the home inspector and appraiser and work out a plan together to keep everyone safe, including:
- Turn on all of the lights in the house and open all closet and cabinet door before the home inspector or appraiser gets to the house to minimize what they need to touch.
- Ask the home inspector and appraiser to wear a mask and bring wipes with them to wipe down anything they touch.
- Finally, leave the home during the appointments, and clean properly once you return home.
Life does move on – if you are trying to buy or sell a home during this challenging time, it might take extra effort. However, working with your real estate team, you can conclude a successful real estate transaction amid the COVID-19 pandemic.