In this instalment of In the Know, our conveyancing solicitor Emily Thorn sat down with Max Morgan, Sales Associate at McGrath Mudgee Region to talk about buying a property sight unseen.
Safety has been a major concern for agents throughout the pandemic, with people travelling from city to country looking for their dream home. Max says
“From an operational point of view, during the pandemic our team have been diligent in ensuring all non-local buyers returned a negative COVID test and held all relevant documentation before attending inspections.”
Buying a house can be an emotional time, especially when you include moving further away or closer to family, Max notes the importance of maintaining regular contact.
“We have definitely focused our efforts on regularly checking in with clients to see how they are travelling, especially as so much interaction is done remotely.”
Max points out that technology has really played a vital part in buying and selling houses throughout the pandemic.
“Video inspections are becoming the norm, and our digital marketing strategies are something we’ve doubled down on during lockdown to ensure we create a memorable experience for our clients.”
So, with technology in mind, how does a virtual open home work?
“We go live directly to our social media audience, touring the property with no second takes which gives the potential buyers that real-life perspective. The audience is also able to interact live and ask questions on the go like they would if they were there in person.”
With virtual inspections becoming the norm, Max says they are definitely seeing an increase in buyers more comfortable in buying a property sight unseen and more in-depth marketing material becoming a tool for purchasers to gain understanding of their potential purchase.
We asked Max if an increase of sight-unseen purchases has resulted in more buyers pulling out during the cooling-off period or suffering buyer’s remorse. He said:
“From time to time, however, most people understand the heat of the market right now and that with limited houses available, it’s difficult to find another property.”
Max advises that the positive to these changes of virtual inspections and sight unseen buying is that due diligence has become an easy and transparent process.
“With pest and building inspection reports being available remotely and solicitors able to review and obtain the signing of contracts completely online, the Real Estate industry can offer a lot more flexibility around clients’ busy lifestyle.”
You can check out McGrath Mudgee and Central Tableland's current listings here:
Emily Thorn is a Property Lawyer at Sally Callander Law. She prides herself on delivering trusted advice and building long-term relationships that help her community continue to grow and thrive. Contact Emily today on (02) 6395 9780 to book an appointment.
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