Our team already had a number of systems, tools and processes in place to allow us to work virtually and we've added even more. Here's a behind-the-scenes look at how we've adjusted to provide our clients with great service while maintaining social distance and safety.
Whether you are planning to buy or sell, or both, we can schedule a virtual consultation via phone or video conference to discuss your needs, answer your questions, and create a strategy that will help you safely meet your goals.
We can review the paperwork with you on the phone or via Zoom and use Docusign so you can sign contract documents from the comfort of our home. If you've never used Docusign before, we can walk you through the process.
Our listings are still being marketed across digital marketing channels to generate maximum possible interest, and in addition to professional photos and videos, we are utilizing 3D tours and virtual open houses. Whether you've got a one-bedroom condo or a multi-million dollar home, we will tailor the marketing to attract your target buyers
After we determine your priorities in a home and neighborhood, we'll set up online alerts so you'll receive notifications of homes that match your criteria the minute they hit the market. We'll also be networking and prospecting to try to find off-market opportunities for you.
With our current situation, many showings will be virtual and we are doing everything we can to make sure our clients' needs are accommodated safely. Most initial showings in our current environment are digital, with any in-person showings adhering to health guidelines recommended by the California Association of Realtors and CDC. We have masks, gloves, booties, and sanitizer on hand. Additionally, it's recommended that any buyers viewing homes already have a pre-approval in place and provide that to the seller.
Percurrent health and safety guidelines, we are working with our clients, appraisers, and inspectors to do as much as possible virtually. Some banks are now allowing appraisers to do "drive-by" appraisals, and when that's not possible, we are limiting the number of people at the home to the minimum, and gloves, booties, and masks are required for entry. Inspectors are able to generate digital reports and review findings via video or phone, meaning buyers and sellers can maintain social distancing.
Buyers can wire their initial good faith deposit as well as the remainder of down payment and closing costs, and mobile notaries can come to you to sign any paperwork that needs to be notarized. Many escrow companies are not meeting with clients in person but you can sign everything you need to from the comfort and safety of your home.
Although we've had to make accommodations and adjustments to some parts of the process, we still are helping buyers purchase homes and we're helping sellers sell homes. Our team understands that a real estate transaction can be stressful even under normal circumstances, and The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team will do everything in our power to make the process as smooth as possible.
