There is no aspect of American life untouched by the coronavirus, including the real estate market. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty President and CEO Christy Budnick talks about what the company is doing to be innovative and adaptable in the current real estate market.
Is it wise to buy a home in an uncertain time?
Let your life decision drive your action. The fact remains that many people need to buy a home now. They may have recently relocated to Northeast Florida, sold an existing home, need to downsize or move to be closer to other family members.
Interest rates are lower than any of the experts have predicted, about as low as they have ever been. With interest rates low, now is still a good time to buy. It is okay to move forward with your real estate needs and many people are doing just that!
Is it wise to sell a home during an uncertain time?
As with buying, it depends on your reason for selling. Are you upsizing to accommodate family growth or downsizing as an empty-nester? Are you moving to be closer to family or as a first-time homebuyer to have a place of your own? Let your life decision guide your action and move forward with the guidance of your Realtor.
Buyers are continuing to purchase homes and with the low inventory of homes, they need options. Our Realtors are currently working with clients seeking to buy homes, which means we have buyers that need homes for sale.
During this time of social distancing and stay at home mandates, how are you able to accommodate buyers and sellers?
The current climate demands that we find ways to be effective without actually being physically present. We go virtual whenever possible. Our company has the systems in place to use technology to list, promote, show and sell homes virtually from viewing to closing, serving buyers and sellers alike.
‒ Virtual open house/home tours
‒ Virtual walkthroughs
‒ Virtual closings
‒ Listings and sales can be handled electronically without physical interaction
‒ Company lending partner, Prosperity Bank, built its systems to conduct business virtually
‒ Company partner, Gibraltar Title Services, offers virtual closings with e-signatures when allowed by the lender.
‒ If virtual closing is not a possibility, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices arranges mail away or face-to-face closings with the highest level of protection.
What tools are being used to connect buyers, sellers and Realtors?
Our company leverages technology tools, such as Zoom, Skype and Facetime, to provide virtual face-to-face meetings and also reduce exposure, as well as time in the public. We have always had a strong social media presence and we are utilizing our social media channels to connect and promote listings.
What virtual services do you offer?
We offer virtual open house and home tours, virtual walk throughs and virtual closings. Our listings and sales can be handled electronically without physical interaction. Our lending partner, Prosperity Bank, built its systems to conduct business virtually, and our title partner, Gibraltar Title Services, offers virtual closings with e-signatures when allowed by the lender. If this option is not a possibility, we arrange mail away or face-to-face closings with the highest level of protection.
Why is a professional Realtor valuable right now?
In times like these, working with an informed and educated real estate professional can make all the difference in the world. Berkshire Hathaway Realtors are trusted advisors who can help navigate these challenging times with guidance and expertise.
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty will do whatever it takes to help buyers and sellers list, sell and buy homes. To learn more, visit FloridaNetworkRealty.com.
Interviewed by The Florida Times Union
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