Although we are in uncharted territory with the ongoing spread of COVID-19 and the incredible speed at which things are changing around us, I am committed to you, my clients, and continue to adapt to changes in the marketplace and our community.
My thoughts and prayers go out to the people who have been affected by this unprecedented event and appreciate the healthcare workers, local communities, and governments around the world who are on the front line working to contain this pandemic.
In this climate, I know a house sale or purchase may not be your first thought, but I wanted you to know the safety and health of my clients is my top priority, while I continue to help you reach your real estate goals. Below is an update on what I am doing, keeping your safety, as well as your homes, top of mind.
For My Seller Clients
• Please expect a reduction in showings over the next few weeks.
• I will not be hosting any open houses until it is deemed safe.
• If I do get a showing request, I will talk with you first, before we confirm that showing appointment.
• Pre-Qualification required by each buyer before an appointment is confirmed, written proof they are financially qualified to purchase at this time
• At a showing, I will ask prospective buyers and their agent to disinfect their hands and wear gloves for each showing…. (I will supply hand wipes and gloves). They will also be instructed not to touch anything while viewing the property.
• If you are not comfortable with showing requests, we can decline at this time.
• I will forward a virtual tour of your home and property to all prospective buyers and their agent. I would also be happy to Facetime prospective buyers.
• Please let me know if you are not feeling well, and we will request the same of prospective buyers and agents.
• It is best to keep your property active on the market so it continues to get exposure. If we were to put in a “temporarily off market” status, it would not show up in any online searches.
Marketing Updates and Changes
• I am increasing digital and online advertising opportunities to take advantage of consumers shopping online more frequently as they stay at home.
• I will create videos of each property and purchase more Facebook, Instagram and other online ads to capture increased online traffic.
• I will also e-mail all relevant information re your property to prospective buyers and agents.
• Zoom/Skype meetings with buyers and sellers, this is working extremely well.
For My Buyer Clients
• Current market conditions offer an incredible opportunity to lock in a record low interest rate.
• Putting a property under contract now and locking in a low interest rate gives you control and certainly in a time of relative uncertainty.
• If staying at home more is going to become our new normal, then you definitely want to “love where you live” and nest in a home that you love and that fits your needs best.
• Cash buyers should consider taking a mortgage on a purchase. Current homeowners should consider re-financing at a lower rate if that makes sense to them.
• I do not ride in the same car as my buyers, safe distancing from each other during all showings.
• If you are not feeling well, please let me know and please don’t go looking at houses. I am happy to do a virtual tour or Facetime you on the property you are interested in.
• Now is a great time to buy… real estate investments tend to increase more steadily than the stock market.
• Fairfield County will continue to be a very desirable place to live, and a wonderful place to call HOME!
The Bottom Line
We are facing unprecedented times, yet we are a strong community that will work together and weather this storm.
On a couple of positive notes, last week I listed a home for sale… it was prepped and priced correctly, hence I received multiple offers. Also, my phone has been ringing with prospective clients from New York City looking for rentals and properties to purchase …. the need for more space and fresh air is becoming a requirement.
If you are thinking about selling in the next couple of months, please call me so that I can develop a specific strategy to market your home. Now is a good time to prep and clean out your closets in anticipation of when things return to normal.
I am grateful for your support, patience and confidence in me as we journey forward together. Enjoy time with your family! Be well and stay safe and healthy!! Please call me anytime; I’m here for you!
Best,
Barbara
