Guide & Tips for Home Buying During COVID-19
To ensure the health, safety and confidence of our clients, our team and the community, we are only working with qualified home buyers under a Buyer Representation Agreement with Home Group Realty.
Meetings
For the time being we are minimizing in-person meetings and will replace those interactions with online, video and phone conversations. Our team is equipped with a variety of virtual meeting technologies, including Facetime, Google Duo, Skype and Zoom, to allow for easy and convenient communication with our clients and other parties.
Paperwork
Our clients can complete all of the necessary paperwork digitally, using processes that are user-friendly, efficient, and secure. In addition to the standard Buyer Representation Agreement, sellers must also complete the COVID-19 Consent Form.
Viewing Homes In-Person
The decision to allow or refuse agents and/or buyers to enter the home is entirely up to the seller. If in-person showings are allowed at the property, it is your decision how you will proceed. You may view the home yourself (accompanied by your Home Group REALTOR®), have your agent view the home on your behalf, or find alternatives to viewing in-person. We will thoroughly discuss the risks, alternatives, and preventative measures when it comes to entering properties, and we will fully respect your choices. When it is deemed absolutely necessary for others to enter your home, we are following the necessary safety procedures as instructed by public health officials, and all visits will be accompanied by your Home Group REALTOR®.
Tips For Buyers During COVID-19
- Get pre-approved for a mortgage prior to requesting in-person viewings.
- Avoid touching handles, light switches, and other surfaces while viewing properties.
- Before requesting showings, review all digital materials available, drive or walk the neighbourhood, and request any additional information or supplements from the listing agent.
- Travel in your own vehicle.
- Wear a face mask during showings and carry your own hand sanitizer.
- Follow health and safety guidelines as recommended by public health officials, including frequent sanitizing, limited contact, and physical distancing – even with your REALTOR®
