Guest Blog by Terin Merriman
Hi, friends!
So this is our lives in the midst of a global pandemic, huh? As we’re adjusting to this “new world” we find ourselves in, it’s important to keep life as normal as we can. While times are challenging and many of us are still searching for our footing, the world doesn’t stop! Thus, during such strange times, you may find that it’s time to sell your home and begin your family’s next chapter.
Now more than ever, it’s important to choose a Realtor and/or company that can produce results as well as keep your family safe during a national health crisis. How can you do that? Funny you ask; I have an answer for that. Did you know that Coldwell Banker Elite is the first in our region to roll out a certification for agents that provides specific tools & training to keep YOU and your HOME safe?
So let’s talk about selling your home & keeping your home safe™. Ah. See what I did there? Such a clever gal. Here are my 3 tips for listing your home during COVID-19:
All Things Virtual
With Home Safe™ practices implemented, you can limit in-person contact & potential exposure to germs by doing virtual meetings, offering virtual tours, virtual open houses, and electronically signing documents. Essentially, you never have to see anyone face-to-face again. Talk about dreams coming true! Have I won you over yet?
Follow CDC Guidelines
Real estate in Virginia has been deemed an essential business, and there are suggested guidelines to follow for both agents & clients. Since we can’t always guarantee that others follow the rules set forth, another way to further protect your home and family is to ask that your Realtor ensure showings are only permitted to those with proof of pre-qualification. This will eliminate any unnecessary traffic through your home.
Implement the Covid-19 Addendum
Fun Fact: There are a variety of addenda and contract language that Home Safe™ certified agents have access to that will help protect you. Included in those clauses and addendum is language that we can negotiate to reduce your risk should you have a problem buying or selling a home related to COVID-19. We also have language that we will negotiate into the contract that can be used to compel everyone involved in the transaction to abide by CDC best practices and open up opportunities to negotiate certain aspects of the contract that wouldn’t normally be a consideration without the proper language negotiated between the parties.
Undoubtedly, things have changed in what is a typical day for most. We have altered our routines and our lives. One thing that isn’t changing is real estate. We’ve seen an influx in home sales and purchases since the start of COVID, and the housing market is projected to strengthen even more. With all-time low interest rates and a seller’s market, now is a prime time to sell with very little to no downside. Don’t let the coronavirus scare keep you from your home sale dreams.
Thank you all for spending a little time with me & reading this blog!
If you’d like more information on Home Safe™, you can visit coldwellbankerelitehomesafe or head over to my blog.
We’re always happy to chat and answer questions.
By Terin Merriman, Realtor
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