It’s a strange time for everyone, and real estate is no exception. With everyone staying home, it can be hard to do those day to day things that need doing, and if you’re in the market for a new home, you may be wondering how on earth you look for a house while staying at home.
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It turns out that living in our very-online world is a good thing, as so many of these things that need doing can easily be adapted online, and home shopping is one of those things! While nothing beats touring a home in-person, and you obviously need an in-person signature to close on a home purchase, there are many aspects of home buying that can be done online from the comfort of your own couch. Here’s a few ideas to get you started.
Searching Online for Homes for Sale
This is most people’s first step anyway. Scouring realtor websites, online newspaper ads, Craigslist, and even the FB marketplace can help you find homes for sale in your area, giving you tons of information, pictures, and numbers to call for homes you’re interested in. Sitting down and viewing these sites, making a list of properties you’re interested in, and numbers to call is a great thing to do while stuck at home.
In many cases you can find multiple listings for homes online, including the buy and sell history, updated pictures, valuation information and so much more right online giving you all the information you need before deciding to buy.
Virtual Tours
Many sellers and realty companies now offer virtual tours for properties, not only those for sale by owner but manufactured homes, and more. Ask your realtor if a virtual tour is possible for the home(s) you’re interested in. 3D virtual tours real estate are a great way to see every aspect of a home so you can make an educated decision without having to leave the house.
Many home manufacturers and realtors that deal with many properties have these available right on the home listings, so be sure to check their website for updated virtual tours that are as easy as a click.
Online Contract and Signing
Many real estate companies, real estate attorneys, and more utilize online form signings and have for a while now. It’s hard to believe you can sign all the necessary paperwork, sign off on inspections, pursue buyers agreements, submit documents, pictures, and forms, and more right from your phone, but it’s true! Buying a house is more convenient than ever with these easy, accessible online documents. If you’re ready to move forward on a property, ask your realtor if it will be possible to do most of the documentation online.
If you’re in the market for a home, popping on the internet is the best first step no matter what type of home you’re interested in. With updated listings, easy to access information, virtual tours, and online documentation, you can buy a home right from your couch! How cool is that?
