Perhaps you were about to put up the ‘For Sale’ sign on your front lawn at the start of 2020. Or, perhaps you’d just uprooted and were excited to purchase a new home and put down some roots. As a seasoned real estate agent in the Deep Creek Lake area, I can easily help you navigate the real estate waters even amidst a national pandemic. Luckily, the area is still seeing plenty of supply and demand, so you should have no problem staying on track — and possibly getting ahead — in this new world of real estate. 

Selling tips during coronavirus

While the economy grinds to a halt due to COVID-19, it’s still entirely possible to continue marketing your home. Since real estate agents are trying to cut down on in-person tours, that means it’s now more important than ever to market your listing to the best of your ability. Get professional photos taken, or ask your real estate agent for tips on how to take high-quality listing photos from your iPhone.

In addition to your listing photos, virtual video tours are now becoming the new norm in the real estate world. In fact, 55% of real estate agents are doubling down on virtual tours. It’s easy to take videos right from your phone as well. But remember — just because the prospective buyers won’t be viewing your property in person, doesn’t mean you should forgo proper preparation. Clean, declutter, and stage as you would for a normal showing. 

Real estate has felt significant impacts due to COVID-19. The pandemic has created uncertainty in our daily lives that affects everything. That being said, real estate transactions can move forward for buyers and sellers.

You can rely on my years experience. Now more than ever, having a knowledgable agent is key.

Buyers

Here are some important points for buyers in the age of COVID-19:

• Find the right real estate agent. I am comfortable with technology and can offer virtual home tours & consultations.
• Virtual home tours – many Taylor-Made listings have 3D tours available online. Facetime or Zoom tours with your agent are also an option. If you want to see a home in person, Maryland Association of REALTORS® has mandated that no more than 3 people be at the showing and practice social distancing/masks/gloves/etc.
• Remote mortgage pre-approval – many lenders are working remotely and are able to pre-qualify you via online applications and interviews via phone or video.
• Remote home inspections – home inspectors are offering buyers home inspections with videoconferencing to review any findings discovered.
• Virtual home appraisals – rather than site visits, many lenders are allowing video or desktop appraising using the data and photos from the listing and comparing it with other similar properties.
• Remote closings – many title companies prefer virtual closings where the buyer is sent the closing package via email, having it notarized and mailing it back to the title company. Funds would be wired to the title company from the lender and no one ever has to come in contact to facilitate the closing except for possibly the walk through which agents are handling with kid gloves so that no one is compromised.

588 Bench Road is a new listing in the popular Sky Valley subdivision. Homes in this area tend to sell quickly due to the beautiful natural surroundings and access to community amenities.

588 Bench Road – A Closer Look

Built in 2005, this spacious chalet is immaculately-kept. It offers five bedrooms and 3 baths. The main level has an open floor plan that is ideal for gatherings. Cathedral ceilings highlight the great room. A stunning, floor -to-ceiling stone (gas) fireplace is flanked by large windows that reveal beautiful scenery.

Adapting real estate services during the COVID-19 crisis is key. As a real estate professional, my goal is to continue to serve buyers and sellers to the best of my ability.

Even during uncertain times, the market continues to move. I am here as a resource for buyers and sellers who need assistance, information and reassurance.

Adapting real estate tactics can maintain the personal, interactive and relationship built nature of this business. I am committed to keeping everyone safe and healthy. Through the use of technology, I can continue to work hard for my clients.

Adapting Real Estate Service

I am working remotely along with my licensed assistant, Karen Doerr. The two of us are readily available for clients. Here are just a few of the ways we are staying connected:

-As always, buyers can search Garrett County and Deep Creek Lake real estate online. If you are interested in seeing more of a particular listing, one of us can go to the property and Facetime with you. Other types of video calls like Zoom meetings are an option too.

-I use my Facebook page to highlight listings for my sellers. It is also an educational tool. People want to stay up-to-date with the Deep Creek Lake real estate market. It is a great way to communicate with a wider audience.

400 Close Road is a new listing in an ideal location. You will find the best of Deep Creek Lake within easy reach of this lovely chalet.

About 400 Close Road

Located within 1 mile of McHenry, the location offers you the privacy of a wooded community and convenience of lake living. You are close to skiing and golf at Wisp Resort, restaurants, marinas and more. Whether you are looking for a second home or primary residence, this is a spot that is definitely a must-see!

The Rolling Oaks subdivision is a quiet area where you can truly appreciate nature on the 1.04 acre lot. This beautiful chalet has six bedrooms (two are master suites) and four and a half baths.

Ideal for entertaining, the main level has an open floor plan. The focal point of the spacious great room is a floor-to-ceiling gas fireplace flanked by large windows. Cathedral ceilings add just the right touch of drama.

The adjacent kitchen boasts ceramic tile and granite counter tops. There is ample space to prepare homemade meals with ease.