Buying a Home During COVID-19, is it a Good Idea?

By Buying February 16, 2021
Is buying property during the COVID-19 pandemic a good idea?

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the housing market in 2020. With people asked to stay at home, the era changed the way realtors and their clients bought and sold homes. However, the real estate industry never stopped.

If you’re wondering if you can buy a house during the COVID-19 Pandemic, the answer is yes.

While we implement social distancing precautions and more patience in the buying process, you can successfully find the home of your dreams despite the pros and cons along the way.

Pros of Buying a Home During a Pandemic

COVID-19 has been a time of uncertainty for many and new norms are popping up every day. One thing we all have in common is that we are now spending a lot of time in our homes. That is why homes have become even more important! We are now working from home, teaching our kids from home, and spending almost all of our time in our homes. We’re realizing that we might want more space or we’d like to shift locations to somewhere more desirable.

Taking Advantage of Historic Mortgage Rates

With mortgage rates being at an all time low and people all over the United States house hunting. Competition for real estate in the High Country of North Carolina is at records highs. Low rates get more bang for your buck and, for some, that means their “dream home” is now affordable.

Cons of Buying a Home During A Pandemic

The largest obstacle to buying a home in the High Country right now is the lack of homes on the market. But, do not be discouraged, houses come on the market every day, so finding one that is perfect for you just takes some patience and getting everything ready to go while you wait.

How to Buy a Home in a Competitive Housing Market

If you are serious about buying right now, there are a few things you can do to get yourself set up for success. If you are a first time home owner, read our guide on how to start.

Get Pre-Approved For A Loan

One thing is to get pre-approved for a loan. Sellers want to know that you have the ability to buy the house they are selling. Finding the right mortgage lender for you is also very important. Research local lenders that also have connections to local real estate agents. Mutual connections can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Find a Realtor

Another thing to do is find a Realtor. At 828 Real Estate, we understand the market and can assist you with making an appropriate offer that a seller will consider and eventually accept. Do you research to find the best fit! If you’re interested in working with one of our realtors, check out our Our Team to find out more about each agent.

Is Now the Right Time to Buy?

If you have a stable income, a down payment in the bank, and are planning on staying in the home for more than a few short years, now may be the perfect time to buy in the high country.

Contact 828 Real Estate and sign up for our newsletter that sends you homes in our market that fit your needs. We also can recommend mortgage brokers to work with and get you ready to make the leap into home ownership when the time is right! For many, the time is now!

About the Author
Sarah Long, NC Broker/Owner/REALTOR® • 828-773-2413 • [email protected]
I am a native of Knoxville, Tennessee, but I have been in North Carolina since1997 when I moved to Boone to attend Appalachian State University. I earned my degree in Theatre Education and Communications. While at ASU I met my husband, Matt Long, a Boone native and general contractor, and gained a heart for these mountains and my beloved ASU Mountaineers. After graduation, I spent 5 years teaching in Charlotte before being given the opportunity to move back to the High Country. In 2007 I earned my NC Real Estate License and began in full-time brokerage. In 2010 I helped to open a franchise brokerage in the High Country. I gained impactful knowledge and built important relationships during my 8 years there, but began to feel the calling to get back to my roots.

In June of 2018, my dream became a reality when I opened 828 Real Estate. We are a boutique brokerage that is locally focused, community-minded and client-driven. I feel so fortunate to be in a career that I love, have opportunities to serve wonderful clients, and get to work with the best team here at 828 Real Estate.

I am a member of The High Country Association of Realtors, the North Carolina Association of Realtors, the National Association of Realtors. I am a member the Boone Chamber of Commerce and I am on the board for the Downtown Boone Development Association. I have also completed the Realtor  e-Pro certification that specifically focuses on the technology tools needed in the purchase or sale of a property. Additionally, I have earned my CLHMS Designation. (Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist) and a qualified LuxuryHomes.com Affiliate. Over the years I have been awarded various Top Producer Awards. I am honored each year to be invited to the Top 50 Brokers in the High Country celebration.

My husband and I reside in downtown Boone and have 2 beautiful children, Sadie Rose and Levi. We attend Alliance Bible Fellowship and stay connected by serving the community and supporting local non-profits like Western Youth Network, The Appalachian Theatre and Valle Crucis Community Park. We love to spend time outside hiking, playing on the river, running with their dog, Emmie Lou, hitting the slopes and making the most of our time in this amazing place we get to call home!