By now, everyone has been impacted by COVID-19 in some shape or form. Many of us are stuck working from home (if we are lucky) or have been let go from jobs in the service industry. Many are navigating working from home while keeping kids occupied and educated during this time home from school. Thank you to the health care workers, truck drivers, grocery store workers, electrical workers etc. who are keeping things running so that the rest of us can stay home comfortably during this scary time.
I've been asked quite a few times how COVID-19 has impacted life in real estate. Sure, it's made our jobs harder. But THANK GOODNESS for technology. During all of this insanity, we are able to host virtual house tours, sign documents electronically, etc. Banks are still open and legislation has been passed temporarily to still allow us to do our jobs during this house crisis.
Many are asking if they should wait to put their home on the market, as they were planning to do so this spring/ summer. Honestly, the answer to that question varies hugely depending on your situation. Are you currently at home because you lost your job? Will that impact your financing? Are you looking to buy a home right away? In my opinion, if you sell and buy in the same market, it does not impact you. If you are planning on selling, waiting and THEN buying something in the future, yes, you could see a loss. EVERYTHING IS SITUATIONAL. I'd be more than happy to speak with each of you individually to figure out what the best option may be for you right NOW.
For those of you still wanting to put your house on the market in the coming days, use this time wisely. Organize and purge the clutter in your home to make it photo and open house ready. Marie Kondo the you-know-what out of your home. Does this half broken crock pot in the garage spark joy? No? Trash it. Clean out kids' closets and organize the garage so that boxes and items will easily move if you find your dream home quickly.
Clean up your yard. It's still a little chilly but it's been sunny the last few days. Get outside. Get some fresh air and rake those old leaves you missed last fall. Trim back those branches and unruly bushes to make your yard trim and clean. This will help you big time when showing your home. If you are unable to do those outdoor things yourself, reach out to some local landscapers who have been laid off. They can still do the work for you while keeping up with the social distancing guidelines while also trying to earn a living for their families. Many families are struggling to figure out what to do with their kids to keep their brains from becoming mush while watching TV. Have a teenager? Put them to work!
Worst case, if you can't get those things done, start making lists. Make that list of must haves for your future home, reassess your finances to figure out what you can truly afford, really take a good look at your home and see what areas may need a fresh coat of paint, you get where I'm going with this. Make use of this time so that when we control this virus, we will be ready to jump into marketing your home when it's at its best.
Let me know if you have any other questions about the market and your next move. Stay safe out there everyone. Wash your hands.
STAY HOME.