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Many people put the brakes on buying or selling as soon as the 'stay at home' orders started popping up because of COVID-19 making it's way into their communities.  So many questions in the minds of buyers, sellers and real estate agents left everyone wondering what they should do.  Two things are certain: people who were looking to move are still "looking".  And people who are wanting to sell shouldn't necessarily hold off until this is over (of course, each family's situation is different).

Here are some ways to navigate real estate for buyer and sellers:

1. Extra safety precautions.  Sellers have every right to request their rules be followed if their home is being shown.  And real estate professionals and their clients should follow all the necessary guidelines.  Remove shoes at the door, or use shoe covers if provided by the seller.  Hand sanitizer at the door.  Only the agent is allowed to touch door knobs or light switches or open cabinets.  Some specific states/counties have tougher regulations regarding showing homes, so be sure to know what is allowed in a particular community, or else the agent, homeowner or potential buyer could face a fine for not following the mandate.

2. Virtual showings.  Some areas are not allowing in-person showings, but real estate agents can still be allowed to enter a home (check your local mandate first).  They can video call their client to do a virtual walk-through.  Also, listing agents may be using videos or enhanced 3-D walk-throughs (from a professional photographer that has the equipment to do this) so any lookers can get a good feel for the property. Some people may not feel comfortable making an offer on a property without having physically seen it, but it can happen if you trust that the property has been extensively and accurately displayed.

3. Many inspectors can still inspect properties (again, check your local rules to see if this is allowed), but they may not allow an agent or buyer to be present.  Ask your inspector if they will do a video call at the end of the inspection to walk through the property and point out any issues they found. 

4. Be aware that closings could look a little different.  Each attorney can set their own rules for how they prefer to operate.  Their job is to keep their essential employees safe, so curbside service for closings seems to be a convenient and quick way to handle signing documents.  They may send sellers the necessary documents ahead of time to review and ask any questions, then to have signed ahead of time with their own notary.  Funds after closing could be overnighted to each party instead of being able to be picked up after closing.

5. The good thing is that for years, agents have utilitzed DocuSign or other digital signature programs to sign contracts, disclosures and addendums....so nothing has changed there.  Being able to communicate through Zoom has been a reliable way for clients and agents to get it done!

If you're still wanting to sell, don't let the uncertainty scare you away from trying!  Most agents are willing to accommodate your wishes.

Wash your hands and stay well!