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Considering Buying A Home Virtually? What To Know

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Almost anything can be done virtually now — even buying a home. While touring a home virtually doesn't replace in-person home visits, virtual tours have their place in the process. To find out what to expect from a virtual home tour along with what needs to be done in person, read on.

What to Expect From a Virtual Tour

You don't need to make an appointment to visit a home. Just locate a real estate listing that offers virtual tours and click away. With a well-done tour, you can visit every room and even the outside of a home at your own convenience. Online virtual home tours were gaining popularity before the COVID19 pandemic hit and they are likely to continue because it's an easy way to take a peek inside a home. Here are some other great things about virtual home tours:

  1. You can take your time and zoom in on areas of interest at your leisure from the comfort of your own couch — while enjoying a snack!
  2. Those with physical or other limitations can go house-hunting and enjoy themselves while staying comfortable.
  3. If you never have time to schedule a home visit, you can access a virtual tour any time of the day or day of the week, no matter what.
  4. These homes are not just high-end — virtual tours are available on homes in every price range.
  5. Go back (virtually) again and again to confirm that the home does have large windows, a walk-in closet, two fireplaces, and other features without having to phone your agent.
  6. You can use a virtual tour to plan out your furniture placement.

Virtual Tours Have Limitations

Be sure you don't forego an in-person visit before making a buying decision, if possible. There are some important facets of a home that won't show up in a virtual tour, such as:

  • The clarity and quality of the tour may not allow you to view enough details to discern flaws and problems with a home.
  • You are not just buying a home but an area as well, and a visit to the neighborhood is vital to get the full picture.
  • The value of a virtual tour can depend on how professionally it was done and your internet or phone connection.

A virtual tour should be paired with not just a visit in person but a professional inspection and appraisal. To find out more about a single-family home that passed your personal virtual tour standards, talk to a real estate agent.


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