The new novel-coronavirus or COVID-19 has changed the world as we know it. Since the outbreak of the pandemic, social distancing guidelines have been limiting the business operations of companies. Many countries and communities have also imposed a lockdown as an attempt to contain the virus.

How did COVID-19 affect the real estate markets and what did the real estate agents do about it?

The pandemic outbreak continues to impact the real estate industry. Everything from managing brokerage operations, to marketing listings, and closing transactions, requires REALTORS® to adapt to these extraordinary circumstances.

Real estate has been a traditional face-to-face type of business, but with COVID-19 changing aspects of everyday life, local real estate agents are also adapting.

Real estate agent Sara Walsh says many in her industry are incorporating technology like FaceTime, 3D tours and Matterport Virtual Tours to tour and showcase homes for potential buyers.

Here’s an example of what a 3D Tour looks like:

Why do real estate agents make use of digital innovation in keeping their business running?

Agents like Danielle Alexander say for many that continuing the process virtually is a natural progression.

“Buyers and sellers are being cautious about who they allow to move through their property to view it,” Walsh said. “Technology has allowed people to see the video tours.”

Cody Tuma, a dedicated real estate agent in Bend, OR, has used these digital marketing strategies even before Coronavirus pandemic began. He also have used some digital documentation and signature apps like DocuSign, Dotloop and PandaDoc so sellers and buyers won’t have to go out of their homes to sign the necessary documents.

“I nerd out for my clients and employ cutting edge technologies to ensure my clients receive the best service possible,” He said. Tuma believes that through digital marketing and documentation, real estate will continue to survive amidst any outbreak.

A lot of first time home buyers will surely love this new and innovative ways of how real estate market does its work for its clientele.