Maneuvering through the new “normal” that has been thrust upon society by the coronavirus pandemic has proven challenging for many. Our health and safety and that of those around us is the number one priority, but how do we reconcile that with the aspects of life that must somehow continue on?
One thing that this global pandemic has not changed is that everybody needs a home. For the real estate industry—which has been categorized as an essential business—that means adapting methods of selling and buying to meet the needs of public health.
If you’re trying to sell a house during this tumultuous time, here are a few key tips for closing the deal safely and responsibly:
Create a virtual showing.
Obviously, you’ll want to cancel any scheduled open houses and limit showings as much as possible. Instead, offer a no-contact virtual tour of your home by uploading a video walkthrough to your online listing. Buyers will be able to get a better idea of your home and how it’s laid out before committing to an in-person showing. You can also schedule personal virtual showings to interested parties.
These measures will help narrow the field down to serious buyers, so you’re not taking any risks for someone with only mild interest.
Don’t forget the rules of staging.
While home staging has always been a crucial step to a successful sale, it’s imperative now more than ever to clearly show the potential of your space. Since prospective buyers will be relying on photos and videos to decide if viewing your property in person is worth the risk, you need to put your home’s best foot forward to ensure they’re convinced.
Staging transforms a property from a house to a home, something that’s especially important as we seek extra comfort and security during these times. Setting the stage with carefully selected pieces will also help buyers get a better idea of scale in digital viewings.
Take extra caution when you do host a showing.
When it comes down to it, very few people (if any) will be willing to put an offer down on a house they’ve never seen in person. When you do conduct showings, it’s important to implement social distancing and safety measures as best you can. Be sure to adhere by the following practices to create an environment that is as safe and sanitary as possible:
- Thoroughly disinfect your house and yourself before and after every showing
- Wear masks and gloves
- Open all interior doors, cabinets, closets etc. ahead of time to minimize touching when buyers want to see these areas
- Limit the number of people present (one buyer at a time, only one person hosting)
- Maintain as much distance between you and your buyers as possible
Negotiate and close the deal online.
Once you’ve reeled in an offer (thanks to your expert staging), handle the details via teleconferencing apps or other digital communication methods. Your agent will be able to conduct or set up discussions for you this way quickly and conveniently. There are even e-signing programs available to officiate a contract once a deal has been reached.
With all of the risk and uncertainty the real estate industry is currently facing, you can’t afford to make mistakes when it comes to staging your home.
The team at Red House Staging & Interiors remains hard at work to ensure every client’s property is market-ready as quickly and safely as possible. Our extensive resources and refined techniques allow us to put the health and wellness of our customers first, as we continue to create beautiful spaces with no sacrifice in quality.
To learn more about the safety precautions we’re taking as we continue to operate during the pandemic and to book our services for your home sale, get in touch with us online or by phone today!