Last week we shared the exciting news that we had found this special and unique home for our lovely clients.
Thank you to everyone who has reached out to us with questions about buying a home during these unprecedented times. We have compiled a Q & A about the most commonly asked questions. We are happy to delve into this in more detail with you.
Stay tuned for next week’s Q & A – Selling a Home in Uncertain Times
Q: Why would anyone buy a home during this time?
A: It is really dependent on each buyers situation. Perhaps they have already sold and have to move by a certain date, maybe they have a baby on the way and not enough space in their current home. They could have a great rate hold ready to expire and the right homes comes up. There are many reasons people need to move, and each situation is different.
Q: Why would you sell homes right now? Isn’t it irresponsible?
A: Real Estate has been deemed an essential service in BC. People have the right to buy, sell and move, and we are happy to be able to continue to provide service to our valued clients during these challenging times.
Q: What precautions are you taking to protect your buyer clients and the homeowner?
A: There is a lot of pre-screening that takes place before anyone even enters a property. Reviewing all marketing materials, driving buy, and reading all ancillary documents must take place before setting up a viewing. Viewings are limited and done with proper social distancing protocols in place.
Q: What about the home buying process has changed?
A: As mentioned, more pre-screening, but also the way we view homes has changed. There are no open houses, a limited number of people can be in the home at any time. There are also waivers and disclaimers to sign ahead, and while in the home, nothing can be touched.
Q: Are most sellers worried about having buyers in their homes?
A: Yes. Most people would be concerned with strangers walking through their homes, now more than ever. As agents, we are diligent in ensuring all doors are already open, everyone maintains their distance, and no one touches anything, sits on furniture, uses the bathroom etc.
Q: What are sellers doing to make sure their homes are clean for buyers to go into:
A: Many sellers are providing wipes or hand sanitizer, and sellers’ agents are being vigilant during the viewing to ensure the recommended guidelines are being followed.
Q: How are these buyers ensuring their financing is in order, with new changes from lenders? (i.e. reviewing before funding and other changes that can come up at the last minute)
A: It is now more important than ever before to ensure buyers are pre-qualified, have great job security, and have everything in order before even writing an offer. Then we have the subject period to ensure everything is in order. It is crucial that contracts aren’t entered into unless the buyer can perform.
Do you have any questions that haven’t been covered here in this Q & A?
Please continue to reach out to us with your real estate questions. As always, were are available and happy to help. We love to chat real estate, and we love to hear from you!