How to Sell Your House During the Pandemic

The process of selling residential real estate isn’t simple, especially during a global pandemic.

Our way of life has drastically changed but that doesn't mean that you have to alter your plans of selling your home.

The real estate industry has adapted and involved amid the conditions of the pandemic so that  buyers, sellers, agents and other related parties can continue conducting real estate transactions safely and securely.

If you thought that the real estate world has halted due to Covid, you are sadly mistaken. In fact, We’ve seen the most real estate activity we’ve ever seen, ever.

Markets across the United States have reported unprecedented upward trends, including an increase in property values and a decrease in days on market.

Here are seven tips we think could help you sell your home during the pandemic.

Trust Your Agent

The truth of the matter is that nobody has extensive experience in buying nor selling real estate during a pandemic.

The more skilled real estate agents however, are good at adjusting.

There are a lot of uncertainties but the right professional can help you navigate your home sale efficiently, regardless of whatever external conditions that may thwart your selling experience.

With assistance from our local association, the Real Estate Commission and CDC guidelines we are able to create a safe and efficient home selling process.

A process in which we can tailor to your specific situation.

Selecting an agent that has been full time since the lockdown in 2020 helps but it would be difficult to reach your goal if you can’t trust the professional you’re working with.

Virtual Showings

Most of the prospective buyers these days begin their home searches online.

Using an agent that integrates technology into their listing process is key.

High end listing photos and  interactive 3-D virtual tours are now a standard if you want your home to receive multiple offers.

In-person open houses are essential but I would encourage virtual open houses and other contact-free services.

I am not an advocate of buying a house sight unseen but a thorough home virtual tour can help the prospective buyer make a decision on making an offer without any health risks if your home has had multiple showings.

Maximize Transitional Space

The many restrictions formed from our response to the pandemic has turned our homes into schools, offices, gyms, places of worship and entertainment centers.

There is an evolving need for potential buyers to have extra space in their next home.

As a collective effort, you and your agent should highlight the features of your home that can accommodate these new requirements.

By transforming unused space into home offices, study centers for students, gyms, or private relaxation spaces. Display functionality in any of the unused rooms to show off your home’s “new normal” potential.

Use Technology to Your Advantage

Luckily, a wide range of real estate technology has already existed before the pandemic which made it easier for experienced agents to adjust to the changes.

Video chat, email, and e-signature platforms have made it possible to conduct complete real estate transactions contact-free.

To stop the spread of Covid-19, whenever possible, prioritize contact-free methods during the sale of your house to keep everyone healthy.

Anticipate Landmines

Pitfalls and delays in a real estate transaction are almost inevitable and the circumstances amid the Corona Virus pandemic has definitely made things more difficult.

Transactions have been postponed due to unforeseen issues such as appraisals, inspections and if new construction, building material shipment delays.

Expect the best but prepare for the worst at any point in the home selling process.

Don't Panic

My number one rule with all of my clients is “if you don’t see me panic, don’t panic”.

Every transaction poses its own set of challenges. Navigating through those challenges is where we can achieve a successful sale.

If you choose to sell during the pandemic or if you’re in the process of selling now, don’t panic.

Emotions run high when we are inconvenienced and if negative emotions transmits to the buyer’s side, then it can potentially negatively affect the sale of your home.

It is possible to sell your home while keeping everyone safe and healthy. Let's discuss how.

Final Thoughts From Tim

As a 17 year real estate veteran in The Triangle, I've helped hundreds of clients sell their homes during all types of markets.

This pandemic has created unique challenges for home sellers, but with the right approach, you can still maximize your sale price and have a smooth transaction.

My top recommendations: get an appraisal to set realistic expectations, declutter and stage your home to emphasize its best features, utilize virtual tours and limit in-person showings when possible, price competitively based on recent comparable sales, and work with a trusted agent who can guide you through the process.

The time we've experienced during the pandemic and the shutdowns have accelerated adoption of digital solutions that give sellers more control over the experience.

Leverage these tools, lean on your agent's expertise, and remember that there are still motivated buyers out there.

With the right prep work and patience, you can sell your house during COVID-19.

My team and I are here to answer any questions and make this major life transition as pleasant as possible for you.