We are in unprecedented times due to the COVID-19 outbreak and the precautions we are all trying to take to minimize the spread of this virus. You may be in a position where you must buy or sell a home soon and I want you to know that, while we will do things a little differently for the time being, real estate transactions not have to come to a complete halt.
If you’re a homeowner who wanted to list this Spring, we can still get your house on the market by doing the following:
Virtual listing presentation rather than in-home consultation
Agent premise visit with or without homeowner present
Pre-Listing
I will wear booties, gloves and facemask to your home and refrain from touching any surfaces
My photographer will exercise the same precautions
While on the Market
A video tour of your home will be made available to all buyers who will be encouraged to review the online material and drive by the home before requesting a showing
All showings via agent preview with the buyer on video conferencing
Second showings in person (with seller permission) and buyer will exercise precautions listed above
While Under Contract
All documents will be signed electronically
Buyers will be discouraged from attending home inspections
Home inspectors will exercise precautions as outlined above
Deed packages can be signed by sellers in advance of closing so there is no need to attend settlement
If you’re a buyer who needs to purchase a home soon, we can still find you a home by adapting our home buying process as follows:
Phone or web conference buyer’s consultation
Pre-Approval from lender
Property Search
I will deliver properties online for your consideration
I will encourage you to drive by homes you like to ensure you are comfortable with the area
I will visit the homes you’d like to see and connect with you via FaceTime, Skype, etc. to take you on a virtual tour of each home
“Second” showings will be available in person with seller approval
Making an Offer
All documents will be signed electronically
Good faith deposit may be made electronically
While Under Contract
Buyers discouraged from attending home inspections – Inspectors will provide detailed reports and photos
Only those signing documents will attend settlement – realtors and lenders will not attend to minimize person-to-person contact
Deed packages can be signed by sellers in advance of closing so they do not need to attend settlement
I am committed to doing my part to practice social distancing and help prevent the spread of this virus while continuing to serve home buyers and sellers in the Lehigh Valley.
Sincerely,
Cheryl Smith