2 minute read
Real Estate Goes Virtual
by Expert Contributor Sarah Forti, Owner of Forti Homes with Keller Williams Realty
In our new environment since the arrival of COVID-19, the uncertainty that comes along with planning a move is amplified. Pennsylvania is the last state in the country to continue restricting Realtors from doing in-person showings. Hopefully, by the time this article is published, those restrictions will be lifted. Until then, and even after that time, COVID-19 has forever changed the home-buying and home-selling process.
Some changes are for the better. Realtors are now forced to employ technology that will make buying or selling a home easier and more efficient in most cases. While nothing can replace the experience of stepping foot into a potential new home, thankfully the best Realtors know how to employ cutting-edge technology, to make your home ownership dreams come true.
3D Tours and Virtual Showings
Until now, browsing real estate online included browsing dozens of still photos, some videos and a few drone shots. But now, 3D technology, once too expensive to use regularly, has advanced and the cost has become more affordable. 3D photography allows the home shopper to experience 360 degrees of each room and floor.
In addition, Realtors and Sellers are performing real-time Virtual Showings of properties. Virtual Showings can be done privately with just one Buyer, or as a public forum similar to an “open house.” This increases efficiency for home Buyers who spend less traveling time to/from any property. Sellers are able to reach many more potential buyers in less time this way, and can give personal tours of the home without the added stress of wear-and-tear from dozens of groups coming through the property.
Online Consultations and Closings
The in-person Home Buyer and Home Seller Consultation is a critical part of a successful experience. It is an opportunity for the home buyer/seller to meet with one or more Realtors, to learn about the process, ask questions, and decide which professional to partner with, while the Realtor learns more about the client in order to best serve their needs.
Now that everyone, from toddlers to grandparents, regularly experiences video communication applications such as FaceTime and Zoom to stay in touch with loved ones, most of us have the ability to “meet” with anyone from the comfort of our own home using our phone, computer or tablet. During an online consultation, the Realtor can share their screen and review a property’s details online, do area “tours” on Google Earth, and review contracts.
Lastly, most title and mortgage companies have adopted policies allowing virtual settlements. This was long overdue, and it’s a safer and more convenient option for Buyers and Sellers.
Ultimately, the real estate experience will be made better for all of us.
Expert Contributor Sarah Forti, Owner of Forti Homes with Keller Williams Realty
Sarah Forti, Realtor
Forti Homes with Keller Williams Realty
610-986-7170
www.FortiHomes.com
Let’s Bring You Home!
744 W. Lancaster Avenue, Suite 125, Wayne
Sarah@FortiHomes.com
