For a long time, virtual tours were the number one tool used to market and sell homes online. With limited in person touring, virtual tours became an easy way for buyers to feel as if they still got to view homes prior to placing an offer. While this is all true, there are a few things that you are unable to see in a virtual tour, and oftentimes these can be deal breakers for buyers. Whether you are relying on a virtual tour as your only touring options before placing an offer, or if you’re simply putting together a list of homes you wish to see in person, keep these few things in mind as you tour homes virtually.
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#1 Neighborhood
It is no secret that a good home can instantaneously be ruined by a bad neighborhood. This is one of the biggest traps you can fall into when touring a home virtually. While the home may look great, the neighborhood could be far less than appealing. If you are uncomfortable with in-person tours, try to plan some time to drive through the neighborhoods of any potential homes prior to placing an offer. This will help you get a feel for the neighborhood you could potentially call home.
#2 Smells
Your senses work for you when touring homes, even if you don’t realize it. Oftentimes as you walk through the front door of an open house, you’re greeted by the smell of fresh baked cookies, unfortunately when taking a virtual tour, you don’t have those pleasantries to greet you. Even worse, you can’t identify any unsettling smells as you walk through the home. From mold and mildew, the smell of pets, a home gym that smells like a locker room, you name it, you aren’t aware of what smells could be lingering. To avoid this from becoming a potential problem, you can choose to schedule an in-person tour after you’ve toured virtually, or even ask your agent to do a quick walk through for you to ensure everything is as it seems.
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While the list of positives when touring a home virtually can definitely outweigh the negatives, it is important to try to keep your eyes open and be aware of things that you may not be able to see through the screen. Work closely with your agent and be sure to discuss any and all of your concerns thoroughly prior to placing to an offer.
If you’re currently searching for a new home, are ready to work with a qualified agent to list and market your home, or if you have any questions regarding Carolina Real Estate, please feel free to contact our office at any time.
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