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Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’re well aware that we’ve been stuck under the cloud of Covid-19 for the last year. Life was put on hold for months in the beginning with people too afraid to do much. Once it became clear that the initial pandemic pauses were going last longer than originally thought, people began to realize they could do most jobs at-home. This has spurred a desire to move away from crowded cities or back to loved places. If you’re one of the many considering buying a house long-distance, here are some tips to help you navigate this unique experience.
Use Online Resources to Check Out the Neighborhood
If you’re unable to visit the home in person, there are a variety of resources at your disposal.
- Look for Facebook groups for that area to ask questions
- Type the address in Google Maps and take a virtual walk through the neighborhood
- Utilize a website like Spot Crime to see what the crime statistics are for the area
Know What You Want Beforehand
The main reason for house hunting is to find something you love and want to live in. Figuring out what your must-haves and would-likes before you start the search can help you save time. Wants are usually minimum number of bedrooms and bathrooms, but the sky is the limit on this one. While you may not find your entire list in one home, having a list of “these are the things the home absolutely must have” and a list of “these are the things I’d like, but can live without” will help your real estate agent find homes that suit your needs.
Verify Your Real Estate Agent
Unfortunately, scammers have taken the pandemic as an opportunity to swindle unsuspecting homebuyers. One of the ways they do this is by listing homes that aren’t actually for sale at amazing prices. Use your online resources to ask for feedback on a particular real estate agent and/or ask for recommendations on a reliable agent to use.
FYI, if a real estate agent tells you they represent the buyer and won’t sell it if you use your own real estate agent, they’re trying to scam you.
Make the Trip For the Inspection
Do what you can to be present when the home is inspected. Even if you can only afford to make one trip during the sale process, travel for the inspection. Most home inspectors will give additional information on home maintenance and smaller issues that don’t affect the sale of the home. It’s a valuable exercise that can set you up for a successful homeowner experience.
Calculate Monthly Payments
When you see a home you love, definitely crunch the numbers to see if that price works in your budget. Online mortgage calculator tools can help you see if your dream home is in the budget or if some adjustments need to be made. This step is very important to help ensure financial success over the duration of the mortgage. If your debt is impacting your ability to afford your dream home, check these tips on how to reduce debt.
Work With a National Title Company
To save some hassle, find a title company that works in your state and the state where you’re purchasing your home, if it’s out of state. A company with a local branch would be most ideal. When it comes time for closing, you can visit the local office to sign the paperwork and get a copy. That’s much easier than printing, signing, scanning, and emailing the paperwork.
Buying a house long-distance can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Many people purchase homes long-distance even without a pandemic, so realtors are familiar with the process. Just breathe, figure out what you want, and dive in.
