So often in the real estate business it feels as if it’s about momentum with one sale after another, but a brick wall called COVID-19 has collided with the real estate industry.
Scott Connors and his team of representatives from Harvey-Goodman Realtor know all about that vibe of success, but the past three weeks? The moment after the governors in Ohio and West Virginia ordered closures of non-essential businesses, changes had to be made immediately so Connors and his colleagues could continue sales already in motion and also to keep the market open.
Latex gloves, social distancing, online shopping, telecommunications, Connors has figured out a new process to guiding clients through a system once heavy with personal interaction during open houses, showings, and inspections. The real estate industry depends on homeowners wishing to sell, and home buyers looking to relocate, and his job is to make those connections while caring for his wife and children during these pandemic times.
What has been the overall impact to the real estate business during this coronavirus pandemic?
It’s definitely not business as usual. Some sellers are declining showings (typically only occupied homes), and many buyers have pushed “pause.” So, we’ve slowed, particularly on the listing side. It’s been good, though, as we are finding new ways to connect with clients remotely, becoming more comfortable with new technologies, and finding ways to do more with less. I expect that many of these changes will become permanent once business returns to normal.
Right now, the only part of the selling and purchasing process that cannot take place is the open houses. How are the other steps conducted right now?
We are still doing in-person showings, although we’re using every precaution to keep our clients safe. We’re wearing gloves, asking clients to let us open doors and cabinets, and turn on light switches, sanitizing everything constantly, and of course, maintaining a 6-foot distance whenever possible. We’ve been doing electronic contracts for years, so that’s not really any different. It’s rare for a contract to be signed in person these days anyway.
Closings have been interesting, as we are limiting the number of people in the room (at a minimum) and even having some clients stay in their cars to sign. A lot of the work in our business happens behind the scenes, on the phone, in the office, or on a computer. So that really hasn’t changed.
Can someone interested in a property listed by Harvey-Goodman view the interior without meeting a firm representative at the actual residence?
Yes! Again, we’ve been doing some of these things for a long time. We can do live, remote walkthroughs via video conference so buyers can see every part of a home without ever entering into it. Buyers can also view tons of pictures, virtual tours, and much more at ClickHarvey.com (or ClickScott.com, if you prefer).
One more thing, we are also working with sellers remotely. A typical Market Analysis involves an in-person walkthrough where we make suggestions about what a seller should do to get their home ready for market, as well as provide research to help establish an asking price. We can do the exact same thing remotely via video chat. It’s pretty neat.
Anyone interested in seeing how it works can go here:
http://scottconnors.clickharvey.com/evaluation/remote-walkthrough?utm_source=Website
What communication platforms are being utilized by you and other members with Harvey-Godman Realtor?
We are using all the usual suspects: Facetime, Facebook Messenger, Skype, YouTube, Snapchat, and many more. Basically, we will use whatever platform is most comfortable for the client.
Sales have continued to take place for agreements made prior to the pandemic, but what about now? What do you expect for the remainder of this year?
We are still showing, offering, negotiating, accepting, and closing. The pace is definitely slower than usual, but people still need to buy and sell. The second half of 2020 will be the busiest market I’ve ever seen in my 11-year career. There are people out there right now who are ready to buy or sell but have decided to wait. When the world returns to normal, they’re going to be ringing our phones off the hook. Interest rates will be low, and banks will be ready to lend. We are using this slow time right now to prepare for the coming rush.
