Market Update – April 2020

This month’s market update will be a slight break from tradition, given that we are facing some unprecedented and unique challenges in our current market due to the public health crisis caused by COVID-19. Since real estate is considered an essential service – what could be more essential than the roof over your head! – we are still here to serve you and your real estate needs. We are adapting to the ever-evolving situation as updates become available and we are utilizing all of the technology at our disposal to offer contact-free transactions whenever possible. Here are some of the steps we are taking to safeguard the health of our agents and clients during this time.

Remote and Virtual Showings

Thanks to today’s vast assortment of technology aimed at keeping us connected, virtual showings (and even open houses) are easy to set up. Agents can utilize programs like Face Time, Skype, Zoom Meetings, and Facebook Live (among others) to keep showing homes while decreasing the number of people actually coming into the home.

Self Guided Virtual Tours

With the help of 3D Matterport technology, potential buyers can take themselves on a tour of a home without having to leave theirs. This is a great marketing tool that agents are using to get their listings in front of buyers with zero risk to buyer or seller. If a buyer likes what they see, a private virtual showing can be arranged. For an example of this technology “in action” check out this listing, courtesy of The Restaino-Endres Team.

Electronic Document Preparation and E-Signature Services

We have the ability to prepare all of your listing or offer documents remotely, and send them to you electronically for review and signature. All necessary documents can be drafted this way – there is no need to meet in person. The program is very user friendly and even works on mobile phones too – no computer needed.

Electronic Earnest Money

You no longer need to write out a check for earnest money deposits and physically deliver it. Thanks to a new program, we can accept earnest money deposits electronically, removing another point of physical contact from real estate transactions.

Prioritizing YOU

We are here to serve you, first and foremost. We will do whatever we need to do to work within your individual comfort level. If you do want to allow limited in-person showings, know that we will take extra steps to disinfect any touched surfaces like door handles and light switches before, during, and after a showing. In addition, we will ensure the use of hand sanitizer for agents and buyers entering your home. We will still prioritize virtual showings whenever possible. If you choose to stop any in person showings during this time, we will take extra steps to adapt your home’s marketing to an online audience to keep it in front of potential buyers. Whatever your needs are, we are here to work with you. Just communicate your requests and we will happily find solutions for you.

The market is still moving forward and transactions are still being completed, in some cases entirely contact-free. If you have questions, concerns, or are uncertain about anything during this time, please reach out to us. We are here for you!