Buying a House During COVID-19

The coronavirus pandemic has had a major impact on real estate markets across the country, but that doesn't necessarily mean that you need to put your home-buying plans on hold. Residential real estate sales have been ruled essential services, and the industry has adapted so that you can shop for your next home from the safety of your current residence. There are deals to be found in many markets, for buyers who are willing to adapt to the temporary new normal in real estate. Learn how to find your next home in our guide to buying a house during COVID-19.

• Be Prepared to Do Most of Your Shopping Online
  In many markets around the country, in-person showings and open houses currently aren't possible due to social distancing regulations. So if you're planning on buying a house, most of your search will likely take place online. Many sellers have adapted by providing virtual tours of homes, in addition to traditional online listings. Virtual showings are a great way to get a deeper impression of a home and explore every room as if you were visiting in person.
• Attend Virtual Open Houses to Learn about Homes
  In addition to virtual tours, some sellers and real estate agents are offering virtual open houses to help buyers get a stronger sense of what homes have to offer. Virtual open houses have the added advantage of allowing you to ask questions of the real estate agent or seller about the home. If an online listing or virtual tour piques your interest in buying a house, be sure to attend the virtual open house when it's available.
• If You Can Visit Homes, Prepare to Practice Social Distancing
  If you live in a market that is still allowing in-person visits or a state where markets are beginning to open back up, make sure you're ready to practice social distancing. Wearing a mask or face covering, sanitizing regularly, not touching surfaces, and keeping a safe distance from others can help you stay safe while buying a house.
• Prepare for an E-Closing or the Use of a Remote Notary
  The typical closing process involves a handful of people gathering in an attorney's office, but that's not currently possible in many locations. Instead, expect to handle your closing digitally with an e-closing, by videoconference with a remote notary, or with a "drive-through" closing where you sign the relevant documents without leaving your vehicle.
• You Can Handle the Mortgage Process Digitally, Too
  If you're buying a house, then you're probably shopping for a mortgage, too. Fortunately, the mortgage industry adapted to handling things digitally even before COVID-19, so there shouldn't be a huge adjustment. Your lender can help walk you through the process remotely and answer any questions you may have.
• Is It Safe to Buy a House Without Visiting In Person?
  Whether buying a house sight unseen is a good choice depends on your tolerance for risk, but virtual showings and open houses allow you to get a deeper picture of any property you're considering. Military members and people changing jobs often had to take the plunge without visiting a home before COVID-19, so it's certainly possible to find a great home from a distance.

While the process may look different from what you'd expect traditionally, buying a house during COVID-19 is certainly still possible as long as you're comfortable handling things digitally. Remember to always check your local coronavirus regulations so you know what to expect when you start shopping.

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