Things to Consider When Buying or Renting Virtually
Buying or renting a space virtually can be a more accessible and convenient option for those looking to move. There are some important questions to ask when touring a space virtually, though.
Whether you’re dipping your toes into the metaverse of digital real estate or are simply remaining cautious due to the ongoing pandemic, touring a home or apartment remotely could be a viable option for you. Virtual real estate is here to stay, and it yields many benefits that can’t be found with in-person home-buying or renting. Without needing to schedule a time to view a home or travel to view an apartment, virtual real estate opens up a far more accessible and convenient world to potential home buyers.
As you embark on your virtual home search, there are some important questions to ask. These questions vary depending on whether you’re planning to live in a home or apartment, so feel free to skim ahead to whichever sections apply to your individual situation.
Touring a house virtually
Realtor.com provides a list of questions that potential home-buyers should be asking when touring a home virtually. First, it’s important to know how old the home is and how old its systems are. These include the roof, plumbing, water heater, and more. You should also be asking if any renovations have been performed, and if so, if the work was performed under the proper permits with a licensed professional overseeing them.
Next, Realtor.com says that you should ask about any previous insurance claims affecting the home’s insurability and if special insurance policies are required for the home. Another important question to ask is what the average costs of utilities are. They also note that you should be inquiring about any causes for price drops, contracts that fell through, and HOA fees.
Touring an apartment virtually
If you’re considering renting an apartment, though, the questions you should ask will look slightly different. Landing provides a list of five vital questions to ask when viewing an apartment virtually.
First, you should ask about the condition of any and all appliances, including but not limited to the oven, water pressure, refrigerator, and lighting. Additionally, you should inquire about the condition of the space and the potential for any cosmetic concerns. Do all doors, windows, and spaces function correctly and meet your needs? Is the apartment clean? Does the flooring/carpet have damage? Are walls or other permanent fixtures like cabinet doors damaged? Are building security and mail delivery measures up to your expectations? These are all things to discuss with your agent during a virtual apartment viewing.
Next, it’s important to ask about the amenities offered. Do you have an in-unit washer and dryer? Are there storage areas in your apartment? Does your apartment have a gym, common area, or pool? Whatever amenities are important to you should also be addressed during this call. The final important set of questions to ask involves how your building’s utilities will function. Are you required to set up and pay for those services yourself, or are they included in your rent bill? If you are in charge of setting them up, you may want to ask about companies in the area and get a quote for the average price of utilities.
Whether you decide to purchase a home or rent a space, though, there are some other important things to check off your list before moving in.
Perry Homes suggests asking your agent to describe any sounds or smells that could be potential deal breakers, including “creaky cabinets, pet odors, squeaky floorboards or other issues that you may not notice in a video call”.
Additionally, they advise adding an inspection and any necessary repairs to your contingencies list before signing a contract, since these will determine the quality of the space you live in. Another aspect of enjoying your space is enjoying what’s around your space. You will want to consider utilizing a resource like Google Maps or having a friend drive around to check out the neighborhood surrounding your home. This will provide you more knowledge of what amenities and resources are nearby for you to take part in, whether it be access to a Trader Joe’s or convenient public transportation to and from your work.
Where we come in
Whether you’re planning to buy or rent, a virtual apartment tour can be a much safer, more convenient, and accessible option, and with the help of 3DApartment.com, you can alleviate concerns surrounding many of the questions mentioned above. With our virtual touring, staging, leasing, and contracting features, your entire home-buying or renting process can be streamlined remotely from start to finish.
With our virtual apartment tours in cities across the U.S., you can physically see your future space; stage, measure, and purchase art and furniture; stay informed on market averages for your area; and more. By asking informed questions, utilizing resources like 3DApartment.com, and comparing different spaces, you’ll be well on your way to discovering your dream space’s unique potential and finding a home that’s perfect for you.
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