Property hunting is an essential aspect of purchasing a home. It is the procedure of locating and assessing prospective residences for buying. People consider various factors when searching for a home, including location, price, number of rooms, and many others. Whether it’s a home, a rental property, or commercial real estate, finding the perfect property will help make your investment worthwhile.  

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, property hunting used to be a straightforward process. There were no restrictions on the number of people who could attend an open house, people could easily travel to different states or countries to view properties and plenty of in-person resources were available. However, things have changed dramatically since the pandemic hit. As such, new techniques have been developed for house hunting to ensure safety and prevent potential exposure to the virus.  

That said, if you’re property hunting anytime soon, here’s a guide to assist you in the new normal:  

1. Searching Property Online 

Online searching for properties has to be the most common technique adopted in the new normal for house hunting. Buyers, renters, and investors can now look for any property from the comfort and safety of their homes.  

There are many websites and apps available that make searching for properties more effortless than ever. For example, at noeljones.com.au, you can filter your searches by location, price range, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and property type. Then, once you’ve found a few potential properties that meet your criteria, you can contact the agent to arrange a viewing.  

While online searching is a great way to find properties, it’s important to remember that not all listings are accurate. For example, some listings may not include important details, such as the property’s square footage or the number of bedrooms and bathrooms.  

Additionally, the photos included in the listing may need to present the property accurately. For this reason, it is essential to engage with online real estate brokers with a reputation for providing reliable and current property information.  

2. Virtual Property Viewings 

Thanks to teleconferencing tools, real estate agents can now give potential buyers and renters virtual tours of properties. This is a great way to get an initial idea of what a property looks like without having to go there physically. The agent will walk you through the property via video chat during a virtual viewing.  

You’ll be able to see all the rooms, hallways, and other features the property offers. The agent will also be able to answer any questions about the property as they go along with the tour. In addition, it allows as many people as possible to view the property without worrying about getting into public gatherings.  

Another advantage of virtual property viewings is that they may be conducted from anywhere in the world. So, if you’re interested in a property located in another state or country, you can easily arrange a virtual viewing. This is especially helpful for buyers looking to invest in vacation homes or rental properties.  

3. Making Prior Arrangements Before Visiting In-Person 

If you have to visit the property in person, you can take a few precautions to stay safe. First, wear a face mask and gloves when touring the property. It’s also a good idea to bring your hand sanitizer to disinfect your hands after touching surfaces.  

In addition, you should ensure that you notify the landlord or real estate agent well in advance before visiting in person. This will help them prepare the property for your viewing and guarantee that there are only a few people in the space simultaneously.  

4. Hiring A Property Finder 

A property finder is an agent who specializes in helping people find the right property to purchase. If you need help finding a property that meets your criteria, then hiring a property finder may be your best option. Property finders have access to various resources to help them find the perfect property for their clients.  

For example, a property finder may have access to private listings that aren’t available to the general public. They may also be aware of homes that are due to enter the market but have  yet to be advertised.  

Furthermore, property finders typically have a good relationship with other real estate agents. This means they can get you a viewing schedule even if the property is not technically available. Moreover, one property finder can work for different buyers simultaneously, preventing the need to have several people looking for a property for you.  

Conclusion 

Buying a property is a major decision, so you must take time to find the right one. In the new normal, you must do the necessary research and take precautions to stay safe. Remember that with a little planning, you can find the perfect property without putting yourself at risk. 

Jane