Beyond the Screen: How Real Estate sellers Can Successfully Make the Shift from Online to Face-to-Face Selling
The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically changed the way we live and work, including the real estate industry. With social distancing and stay-at-home orders in place, real estate agents have had to adapt to online selling to continue their businesses. Virtual tours, video conferencing, and digital paperwork have become the new norm in the industry. However, as the world begins to open up, it is essential for agents to transition back to face-to-face selling. Here are some tips to help agents make the transition successfully.
1. Keep Your Online Presence Strong: Just because you’re transitioning back to face-to-face selling doesn’t mean that your online presence isn’t important. Many potential buyers still prefer to begin their home search online, so it’s crucial to keep your website and social media profiles up to date. Be sure to include high-quality photos, virtual tours, and detailed property descriptions to attract potential buyers.
2. Reconnect with Your Network: One of the benefits of face-to-face selling is the ability to network and connect with other professionals in the industry. Reach out to your existing network of contacts, including past clients, lenders, and other agents, to let them know you’re back to face-to-face selling. Consider hosting a networking event or attending industry conferences to meet new contacts and expand your network.
3. Stay Up to Date with Health Guidelines: While the world is opening up, it’s important to remember that the pandemic is not over. It’s crucial to stay up to date with local health guidelines and follow recommended safety protocols. This includes wearing masks, social distancing, and limiting the number of people at showings or open houses.
4. Plan Your Showings Carefully: When transitioning back to face-to-face selling, it’s essential to plan your showings carefully. Consider the safety of your clients and yourself by limiting the number of people in the property at one time, avoiding physical contact, and offering hand sanitizer and masks. Schedule showings with ample time in between to allow for cleaning and ventilation of the property.
5. Be Prepared to Answer Questions: As buyers return to face-to-face selling, they may have questions about the transition from online selling. Be prepared to answer questions about the safety protocols you’re following, what to expect during showings, and how you’re adapting to the changing market.
The transition from online to face-to-face selling in the real estate industry may be challenging, but it’s essential for agents to stay ahead of the game. By keeping your online presence strong, reconnecting with your network, staying up to date with health guidelines, planning your showings carefully, and being prepared to answer questions, you can successfully make the transition. With these tips in mind, you’ll be ready to help clients find their dream homes in person once again.