Those who were headed into 2020 ready to start their home buying and selling process are now all wondering the same question. What now? I’m here to tell you that selling a home in this pandemic-ridden time is still entirely possible with the help of a trusted real estate agent, and — if you’re not quite ready — there’s plenty you can do in the meantime to prepare for the post COVID-19 world!
You don’t have to pause your buying or selling process
Americans nationwide are practicing social distancing measures; this might put a stop to certain real estate techniques like open houses and showings. However, real estate agents have already started conducting virtual tours, digital closings, and remote client meetings, while the Federal Housing Finance Administration (FHFA) has provided alternative methods to in-person appraisals. This means not only can you continue selling, but you can also do so safely.
Talk to a top real estate agent in Kansas City to decide whether it’s a good idea to move forward with your buying or selling process. If so, there are plenty of ways to safely conduct business and market your home virtually. With the help of a real estate agent like myself, sellers willing to take the proper precautions can still successfully continue with their real estate plans!
Prepping your home for sale
Whether you’re planning to wait out the COVID-19 crisis or dip your toes in real estate now, you’ll have to get your home market ready — and what better time to do so than during quarantine? Experts agree that cleaning, decluttering, and depersonalizing your home is the most important task you can undertake before a home sale.
Even if you’re planning on waiting out the coronavirus pandemic, presenting a clean home translates to a safe home for many buyers. If buyers can see dust clogging up on the counters, dirt tainting the floors, and smudge marks on the windows, they won’t be impressed.
Decluttering and depersonalization is just as important. If your home is cluttered, it’ll seem less spacious to potential buyers. Likewise, buyers want to picture themselves in your home, so you don’t want to distract them with personal mementos, family photos, and bowling trophies.
Increasing your curb appeal
Now that you’ve tackled your interior, it’s now time to divert your attention outside. Your home’s curb appeal determines a potential buyer’s first impression of your home. And in real estate — and all other aspects of life — first impressions are key.
Don’t worry about anything too extravagant. Kansas City buyers will be more impressed with general upkeep than fancy water features or brand-new patios. In fact, experts claim general yard maintenance is the number one most important task to impress potential buyers. Plant some flowers, repaint the front door, mow your lawn, and make sure everything is in tip-top shape. That way, once the COVID-19 crisis ends, all your preparations will be taken care of and you’ll be ready to sell!