Lifestyles over 50 Finance & Money
The Pandemic of 2020 has affected us in ways we may not have imagined at first. Probably the biggest overall hurdle to normal life has been the lockdowns and social distancing, making it difficult to conduct business as usual. This is particularly difficult for those in the real estate industry, where houses need to be shown, contacts need to be made, and papers need to be signed. Changes in the economy and government regulations and reactions to the pandemic have caused changes in housing availability and migration patterns of families in flux.
Although the dip in housing availability has caused prices to increase, low-interest rates have caused an increase in loan applications. Families are moving from expensive, poorly-managed cities with high infection rates to less-expensive, more remote, healthier suburbs and towns — therefore, demand for housing is high. Although laws and restrictions vary among states, that has not affected the migration rate. Like other industries, the real estate industry has adapted through the use of technology. Meetings, exchanging documents, and even showings, can take place via Internet providers and resources. When face-to-face encounters become necessary, the prudent realtor or agent will take all necessary precautions to limit contact and contamination. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, as well as the Pennsylvania Association of Realtors, has strict, detailed guidelines for conducting in-person activities, in order to mitigate fears of contamination. The technologies available include virtual meetings using Zoom and other Internet video meeting software. Buyers can often view videos of available properties (which is extra-handy when considering a distant move). When contemplating multiple locations, satellite views of houses are often available. On-line meetings in the comfort of one’s home can set people at ease and even give the realtor a peek into the buyer’s world for a more intimate, personalized search experience.
Even marketing has been changed by the pandemic. A new tagline has been added to many promotions. We are familiar with “Newly renovated!” and “Close to schools” — Now we have “Just been cleaned!” and
“Disinfected!” Because of a changing market and the restrictions imposed on realtors, bankers, and the like, it’s essential that you know what you are doing and have all necessary financial records and the like in order. You need to have a trained, dedicated, ethical expert to shepherd the entire process. Elissa Clausnitzer is proud to be working with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, Fox & Roach, REALTORS®, a well-known and reputable business. Elissa Clausnitzer, SRS, SRES, SMRS, is a local, experienced expert who is ready to serve you and make your next home a reality.