The pandemic continues to be at the forefront of our thoughts, and dictates how we go about our daily lives. It has impacted everything we do, from work and education for our kids, to how we shop and spend our leisure time. People interested in buying a home have found that the landscape has changed pretty dramatically over the last six months. But, are still interested in tour opportunities for a home. The Denver metro real estate market continues to be a hotbed of activity but the way home buyers are approaching the purchasing process now  incorporates technology, social distancing and some creativity.

For many people, postponing a home purchase is not realistic. Maybe you’ve been preparing for months to get to this point. You have your down payment ready, your loan has been pre-approved and you feel ready to start looking to tour for a new home.

If now is the right time to finally escape renting an apartment or move to a more appropriate home for you and your family, we would be happy to help you understand your options and help you move forward. Thankfully, we have many tools available that can help streamline the home buying experience and actually make better use of your time.

We know you may have a lot of questions and concerns before looking at homes during this time. We are happy to offer personal guidance and suggestions on how to proceed to achieve your goal of home ownership.

Technology Gives Home Buyers a Big Assist

While the COVID-19 virus has changed some of the parameters of home buying, you can still achieve your goal. Due to great improvements in technology, you can get an up-close and personal view of homes that interest you and conversely, not waste time on those that don’t fit your criteria.

Thankfully, through the use of virtual tours, FaceTime, and the ability to browse through homes online, you can get a good idea of what’s available on the market. Whether you are a first time home buyer or a seasoned real estate investor, you will be able to access the information you need and possibly streamline the process to find your desired home.

Most home sellers post high-quality photos and videos of their properties. Many also show video walk-throughs so you can see room details that will help you determine if the home warrants an in-person look.

In-Person and Open Houses Are Now Available

Once the economy started opening up in May, most home sellers started offering in-person showings, However, potential buyers must be prepared to make a reservation ahead of time, wear a mask, use hand sanitizer going in and coming out of the home and limit touching of surfaces. Likewise, open houses are also allowed. The number of people allowed in the home at one time will be monitored and again, social distancing, masks and hand sanitizer must be used.

Here’s what you can expect when looking to buy a home this summer:

1. Virtually meet or schedule an in-person session with your Usaj Broker for an initial buyer presentation.
2. Virtually/in-person meet with your lender and get pre-approved.
3. Take virtual tours and browse homes online.
4. In-person home showings and open houses are now allowed. Check with your Usaj Realty broker to learn the latest guidelines.
5. If you don’t feel comfortable visiting a property, your Usaj Broker may be able to perform a FaceTime tour of the property for you, while practicing social distancing and CDC guidelines.
6. Buyers can view the home in-person for an inspection after going under contract.
7. Sign all documents and payments electronically.
8. FaceTime inspections may still be allowed. Check with your Usaj Realty broker for the latest information.
9. Virtual mail-out closings or curbside closing (a temporary exemption due to COVID). Closings can also occur via Zoom!

Your Health and Safety Are Our Top Concern

Depending on your personal situation, an in-person tour of a home may not be realistic or a preferred approach. Don’t be deterred from buying a home because of your health situation. Take advantage of all the on-line tools and make buying a new home a reality in 2020. Your Usaj broker will work tirelessly to help you feel well informed during these unprecedented times. Available via virtual meeting, text, call and email, Usaj Realty is here to serve you safely and thoroughly. If you have any questions about the buying process, please feel free to reach us at 720.398.2999 or by emailing info@usajrealty.com