The COVID-19 outbreak has certainly thrown the world a curveball but this doesn’t mean life itself has stopped. While some have decided to wait this pandemic out before buying a home, for others there may be an urgency to move. Some people are in the middle of a job transfer or their lease may be ending. Real estate agents are considered essential, and we are still open for business and serving the needs of our clients.
Some of our resources we are currently using to accommodate social distancing include virtual showings; video and phone appointments; digital documents and e-signatures.
Take a look at these steps for buying a home during COVID-19:
Stay in touch with your realtor: No need to let social distancing stop you from communicating with your agent with technology at our fingertips. Our real estate professionals are still available and ready to help. Phone calls, FaceTime, or Zoom meetings…we’ve got you covered.
Find a lender: Your agent will have experience working with various lenders in our area. You will need a lender to pre-approve you before you begin the home shopping process.
“If you’re ready to buy a home or refinance your current mortgage, it’s a great time to reach out to us. While some processes have changed, we continue to be open and fully operational with the same level of service. Rates are great and realtors are still selling homes. Contact our office today and speak with one of our loan officers to get pre-approved! Even if you’re waiting, now is the time to get pre-approved.”- Kevin McDougal, Augusta Mortgage Company, President
Get pre-approved: Now, that you have found a lender, you will fill out an online application to get pre-approved. Once pre-approved, you and your agent will have a better idea of how much you can borrow.
House Shopping: You can still view homes. Most agents, as of now, are gathering listings that meet their client’s search criteria and then guiding them through a virtual showing. If you find a home you are really interested in and want to schedule a physical tour, your agent will discuss this further with you and the Seller’s agent.
Inspections & Appraisals: As the buyer, you aren’t required to be present during the inspection or appraisal. All arrangements can be made via telephone calls or emails. Your agent and/or loan officer will help direct you.
Closings: Blanchard and Calhoun’s agents are closing on homes every day. Attorney offices are also taking advantage of virtual closings and digital signing. While each office will have its own procedure, many attorneys are allowing parties to come in separately and maintaining social distancing guidelines.
Our team is closely monitoring the impact of the coronavirus on the community and the real estate market. Our priority is keeping our agents, team, and clients safe. We will continue to serve the needs of our community as we have for the last century.
If you have any questions, please reach out to us. We are happy to answer any questions you may have!