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With people across the country following orders to stay at home and practice social distancing, some are deciding to put their dreams of homeownership on hold until the COVID-19 crisis settles down.However, many people are still looking to continue their home buying journey and achieve their real estate goals from home, especially with the current low mortgage rates.
We want you to be able to fulfill your real estate goals safely. Read on to discover our five tips to continue your home buying journey while staying safe.
- Conduct Research and Search for Properties Online
Use your time at home to start conducting the research that will make your home buying journey much simpler. Discover which neighborhoods are right for you, investigate school zones and reports, and see what forms of transportation are available in areas you love. You can also take this time to determine your budget and devise a clear list of must-haves and have-nots.
Once you have conducted your research, you can start searching for homes in your desired neighborhoods using our digital home search tool. With this tool, you can find properties that best meet your needs by using filters to refine your search. Search for a home with the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, construction year, price, home type, and square footage you want. You can also contact a real estate agent and a mortgage broker directly from the platform.
- Apply for a Mortgage Online
You can still get a mortgage during this time to kick-start your home buying journey and benefit from the current low rates. Resource Financial Services invests heavily in technology, which allows our customers to safely apply for a mortgage from the comfort of their homes. Also, our digital tools will enable you to communicate with our team throughout the entire loan process. Therefore, if you have any questions, our team is ready and able to assist you. To learn more about our online application tool, click here.
- Partner with a Trusted Real Estate Agent
Due to the stay at home orders, many real estate agents are also working from home and utilizing technology to conduct business. Partner with a real estate agent who will put your safety first and work with you to ease your feelings of uncertainty and anxiety. You may not feel comfortable viewing homes in person right now, and a great agent will understand that and leverage the current tools available to satisfy your needs. We have trusted real estate agents that we regularly recommend to our customers. If you choose to buy a house with one of our agents, you may be eligible for a 0.5 % cash reward.
- View Homes Virtually
With social distancing measures in place, several open houses and in-person showings have been canceled. As a result, real estate agents are using technology like cell phones, drones, 3D cameras, video chat services, and advanced software to conduct virtual home tours. Agents are offering 360-degree virtual viewings, live chats when walking through properties, pre-recorded video tours, and 3D home tours, which allow you to explore every inch of the property without leaving your home.
- Try to Complete the Closing Processes Online or with Minimal Contact (i.e., Appraisals, Inspections, or Closing)
The final stages of the home buying process usually rely heavily on face-to-face interactions; however, due to the pandemic, many companies are making adjustments that allow you to complete the home buying journey safely. Appraisals are a requirement for all loans; some appraisers are conducting drive-by evaluations, and others are completing desktop appraisals. Inspections are also a requirement for most loans; currently, inspectors are doing them alone while wearing protective gear and sanitizing the home upon departure. Some states are allowing remote home closings. Other states are allowing signings with minimal contact. When you are ready to complete your home buying journey, ask if these options are available within your area to ensure your safety.
The current pandemic has altered the usual home buying journey, but with the guidance and support of industry experts, continuing with your journey to homeownership in a safe manner is still possible.
At Resource Financial Services, we love making people’s dreams of home ownership a reality. Visit us online today at rfsmortgage.com to get started. Then contact a Resource Financial Services mortgage banker at 877.797.4545to discuss your mortgage options and your financial goals. Let us walk you through the process and welcome you home to a better mortgage.
