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As home viewings go online demand is still high, says Paul Drury
As with every other aspect of our lives, the coronavirus pandemic is raising huge questions about the housing market. And with the Government advising us to limit social contact, do we really want viewers walking through our homes – or to be visiting potential purchases?
should we be considering making the biggest financial investment of our lives when worldwide stock markets are in free fall?
Estate agent savills has been quick to prepare for life during the Covid-19 outbreak by introducing remote viewing, with staff conducting video tours via smartphones.
If a client shows interest, real-time skype tours can take place, allowing a prospective buyer to ask questions along the way – from the comfort and safety of their own home.
Ben Fox, savills’ head of residential sales in Edinburgh, said: ‘We’re thinking outside the box to deliver a proactive service in this very unusual business environment.
‘Our team is in touch with buyers, sellers and each other all day, every day, and we have great tech systems to allow us to do this remotely, if not in person.
‘Clients want reassurance. They want to know how the situation is likely to impact the purchase or sale of what is probably their most valuable asset.’
Mr Fox said some potential buyers are still prepared to view in person. When this takes place, all Government advice on distancing and handwashing is observed by all those involved.
He added: ‘some buyers, understandably, are choosing not to view in person. But much can be gleaned about a potential property for sale online. Our websites show high-quality images, and often videos, too.’
Demand is said to remain high, particularly in the capital.
On Tuesday, savills received four notes of interest ahead of a closing date for a property in south-east Edinburgh and another good offer for one in the north of the city, with sales agreed.
At Nile Grove in Edinburgh’s Morningside, an end-terrace family home shows how period and modern features can work in seamless harmony. The house, which sits back from the road, is faced in blond sandstone and has three levels.
The bright drawing room is as traditional as they come, located on the first floor.
But it is to the rear of the fivebedroom property that you encounter the ‘wow’ factor – an extension housing a fabulous cooking/dining/living area overlooking the back garden.
Mr Fox said: ‘The supply of homes being launched onto the market may well fall as prospective sellers are put off due to the uncertainty. But we’re working with a number of clients to get their homes “market-ready”.
‘We will take a case-by-case view on whether it’s best to launch now on the open market, market privately, or postpone until there is more certainty.’
Offers over £1,195,000 to Ben Fox on 0131 247 3770 or email bfox@ savills.com.