Renting or Buying? Here’s How to Safely Tour Real Estate During Coronavirus

Thinking of renting or buying a house during the Coronavirus pandemic? Despite the ongoing health crisis in America, many Americans are still choosing to move to a new home for a variety of reasons. Perhaps a job has been relocated or a rental lease is about to end. Whatever the reason, we know that finding a new home can’t always wait. So how does one go about finding and touring real estate in the midst of social distancing? Fortunately, savvy Realtors across America are harnessing technology to show, market and sell properties in the midst of Covid-19. Whether you are social distancing, self-quarantining or are following a strict “shelter in place” order from your local government, you can still tour and explore real estate. Here are 5 tips for looking at a potential home during the Coronavirus pandemic.

5 tips for renting or buying a house during the Coronavirus

Hire a knowledgeable and informed Realtor

Browse real estate online via real estate marketplaces

Have your Realtor perform a live, virtual walk-through of the home

Explore the neighborhood by foot or in the car

Get pre-qualified for a home

Tips for moving during the Coronavirus pandemic

Already found your new home? Here are several easy-to-follow tips for moving during the Coronavirus pandemic

  • Avoid used cardboard boxes – Unfortunately, Coronavirus can remain viable for up to 24 hours on cardboard, according to the CDC. This means that borrowing used boxes from friends or taking used cardboard boxes from workplaces and recycling centers is a big no-no. Remember: this is not the time to borrow moving boxes and supplies from others. For more information about where to find cardboard boxes, check here.
  • Have movers perform a pre-move virtual survey – Need a moving quote? Instead of having movers come to your home to inspect belongings in-person, ask them if they can perform a virtual inspection instead. Virtual communication tools, such as Zoom and FaceTime, offer an easy and safe alternative to an in-person inspection.
  • Sanitize all surfaces after the move – Make sure to have plenty of disinfectant spray and wipes on-hand during moving day. Hand soap and hand sanitizer should also be placed in bathrooms and by the front door. After you move, sanitize cardboard boxes and high-touch surfaces (think: door knobs, staircase railings and iPhones).
  • Ask movers to wear gloves and masks – Be sure to ask movers about any and all precautions they plan to take on moving day. Will they be wearing masks? How about gloves? Do they plan to practice good hygiene (i.e. washing hands throughout the day)? These are all important questions to ask when assessing whether or not to hire a moving company for the job.
  • Maintain social distancing – Finally, make sure to maintain social distancing throughout the move. This might mean waiting outside while the movers move belongings in and out of the home. At the very least, you should stay at least six feet away from movers and those not in your household, in order to avoid catching or spreading this highly contagious virus.

Moving soon?

To find a reliable moving company, check Moving.com’s extensive network of movers. Our website makes it easy to find and book the best moving company for the job. All relocation companies in our network are licensed and insured, so you can rest assured that your move will be in good hands. Best of luck and happy moving!