COVID-19 has changed the way people do business. With the highly contagious nature of the virus, most people have abandoned any face-to-face contact, forcing companies to either put a halt to their business or find more creative ways to provide their services.
Real estate is a people-driven business and requires a lot of face-to-face interaction. And people still need somewhere to live! To continue to offer real estate services, you need to get creative. At Paul Rushforth, we have modified the way we do business in order to continue providing real estate services to those who need it while maintaining proper social distancing and keeping both buyers and sellers healthy and safe.
One of the most important ways our realtors have managed this COVID-19 chaos without putting people at risk is by conducting virtual house tours. Basically, virtual house tours guide buyers through the home with detailed videos and pictures, showcasing every nook and cranny. Thanks to the internet, buyers can now view a home and interact with a listing agent in real-time from anywhere they can get an internet connection.
But realistically, virtual house tours aren’t the same as being at a home in-person. So, are they worth your time? Here are our pros and cons of conducting a virtual tour:
Pros
Health & Safety / Physical Distancing
Above all, your health and safety are what matters. And we believe holding a virtual house tour benefits both the buyer and seller in that manner. Conducting an in-person open house puts everyone’s health and safety at risk. As well as having been cancelled by the Ottawa real estate board.
By choosing the alternative, you’re minimizing the chance of contracting COVID-19 or passing the coronavirus on to your loved ones.
Accurate Representation
Even though looking at a home in-person will give you the best overall impression, virtual house tours are surprisingly accurate when representing the quality and feel of a house. Whether through Zoom or Facetime, the realtor will walk you through the home with a high-quality camera in hand.
As a buyer, it’s essential to have your real estate agent on the call as well; they know the right questions to ask and where to direct the seller’s realtor to get an accurate picture of the home. As a seller, you can rest assured that your realtor will do their best to showcase your home in its accuracy.
Cons
Lack Of In-Person Interaction
Although technology makes communicating super handy, some may not be too crazy about the idea. Some prefer a more personal interaction instead of talking to a computer screen. Also, some may not be as technologically savvy, and they may have trouble with setting up calls. It may seem like more a hassle than a solution.
Requires Extra Precautions & Time
There’s a lot more that goes into setting up a virtual house tour. Setting up the camera, proper lighting, scheduling online calls etc. A lot more cleaning will need to be done too, as some realtors may ask for parts of the home to be cleaned and sanitized as a precaution.
What To Conduct A Virtual House Tour?
Now that you’ve weighed the pros and cons, do you think a virtual house tour works for you? If so, give us a call at 613-788-2122 and our Paul Rushforth representatives will set you up with a real estate agent who’s equipped with all the necessary tools and experience.
We hope everyone is healthy and safe. We will get through this!
