Buying a home long distance can be a thrilling real estate adventure, especially in the age of virtual tours and remote transactions. Many took this route during the pandemic due to travel restrictions, and it’s a popular option for those relocating across the country. While purchasing a property sight unseen carries some inherent risks, it can also be a rewarding experience if approached thoughtfully. If you are buying a home long distance, here are 5 essential tips to help ensure you don’t end up regretting your purchase. From relying on a trusted local agent to conducting a thorough home inspection, these strategies will help you confidently navigate the unique challenges of buying a house without ever stepping foot inside.
1. Rely on a Trusted Local Agent
When it comes to buying a home long distance, having a local agent you can trust is key. These agents know the area inside and out and can provide valuable insights you wouldn’t otherwise get.
How do you find the right local agent? Start by asking friends and family for referrals. Then, do a bit of research: check reviews, ask about their experience, and ensure they’re a good fit for your needs. Communication is crucial, so choose someone you click with.
Once you’ve got your agent on board, be upfront about what you’re looking for. Give them a clear idea of your must-haves, your budget, and your timeline. The more info they have, the better they can work to find your perfect home — even if it’s miles away.
2. Research the Local Market and Neighborhood
When you’re house hunting, it’s important to do your homework on the local market and neighborhood before making any big decisions. Since you can’t visit in person, there are plenty of ways to get a feel for a community from the comfort of your couch.
Start by hopping online and digging into the neighborhood’s demographics. Check out census data, crime stats, school ratings, and other key info that’ll give you a sense of what life is like there. You can also scope out local blogs, social media groups, and online forums to see what residents are buzzing about.
At the end of the day, you want to make sure the neighborhood is the right fit for both your lifestyle and your wallet. A little work upfront can save you a major headache down the line.
3. Utilize Virtual Tours and Videos
When you can’t visit a property in person, virtual tours and videos are the next best thing. Don’t be afraid to lean into these digital tools (and lean on your agent to provide them) — they can actually give you a pretty good sense of a home. Just be smart about how you use them.
Look for high-quality, comprehensive virtual tours that let you really explore the space. Don’t settle for a quick video walkthrough. Pay attention to things like lighting, camera angles, and how the tour is edited — that can give you clues about the property.
Videos are great too, but focus on the ones that show you the important stuff: the layout, the condition of the home, the neighborhood vibe. Don’t get too hung up on fancy editing or flashy drone shots. Just look for footage that gives you an authentic feel for the place.
4. Negotiate the Price and Contingencies
When buying a home long distance, you’ll need to get creative with your pricing and contingency strategies. Don’t worry, it’s totally doable — you just have to be a savvy negotiator. Lucky for you, your trusted local agent will play the role of savvy negotiator.
As for contingencies, you’ll want some solid ones in your purchase agreement. Must-haves include an inspection clause, appraisal requirement, and the ability to back out if the home doesn’t meet your expectations. Don’t be afraid to ask for extra time to do your due diligence either. The seller should understand you need to cover your bases when buying the home long distance.
5. Get a Thorough Home Inspection
A thorough home inspection can save you from inheriting a money pit, especially when you are buying from afar. When you’re shopping for an inspector, make sure to find someone experienced and knowledgeable. Your agent should be able to provide you with some recommendations or have a go-to person on speed dial. If not, be sure to read reviews and interview a few different people before you decide. After all, this is a big investment, so you want to make sure you’ve got the right person on the job.
The inspector will check everything from the foundation to the roof, so you’ll know exactly what you’re getting into. Even if a house looks perfect on the surface, there could be issues that only a trained eye can spot.
The Bottom Line
Buying a home long distance can be a thrilling real estate adventure, but it requires careful planning and preparation. By working with a trusted local agent, thoroughly researching the neighborhood, utilizing virtual tours and videos, negotiating strategically, and getting a comprehensive home inspection, you can navigate the process successfully.
Anytime between “now” and “right now” is a good time to take action on shaping your best life, and that includes where you live. Let’s get the ball rolling on your next steps.
(702) 374-6807. Or drop me a line here.
