UPDATE AS of 4/27/19

It appears we are still not allowed to operate per the governor.  We do not have any indication if we will be sidelined until May 15 or not, but it does not seem like there is urgency in the state administration to get safe businesses back to work!

 

I think it's time to update everyone interested in Northern Michigan real estate on how the industry is currently affected by the Covid19 pandemic.   As a Michigan business, we are required to follow the governor's guidelines and per her executive order, real estate sales is not an essential activity. 

So, what does this mean for the real estate market Up North?  Technically, we can do everything necessary to conduct real estate transactions and close on the sale of a home.  Title companies, banks, appraisers and inspectors are all still able to function during the "stay at home" order.  What is not allowed are: in-person showings, listing photography, in-person client meetings or realtor walk-throughs of a property.  

BUYERS

If you are looking to purchase a home in Northern Michigan in the next month, you still can! My advice is to work together to narrow down the property you are most interested in and decide if you'd like to proceed pending an in-person walk through.  Our MLS only posts 25 pictures and most agents do not have professional virtual tours available (I'm NOT most agents), but homeowners have been helpful with providing additional pictures and video when requested.  I will work with you during the negotiation process to ensure you get the best deal possible.  We know that every dollar counts, especially during what are sure to be trying economic times.

SELLERS

If you are thinking about selling your home, there is a lot that can still be done between now and the time the "stay at home" order is lifted.  We can gather all of the information about your home, conduct a market analysis, and finalize the marketing plan.  When it comes to pictures and video, I will coach you on how to get decent shots with your cell phone.  I will then have those photos professionally improved to ensure the best online presentation for your home. When the order is lifted I will bring in a  professional for  photography, drone and 3D virtual tour creation.

We don't yet know the full economic impact of this pandemic on the Northern Michigan real estate market.  What I do know for sure is that my web traffic is at an all time high and people are shopping right now.  The buyer for your home may be on the lookout today and you don't want to lose them to another property!

I think it's important to remember that this is first and foremost a health crisis.  The economy was strong before and the housing market was in great shape.  For a lot of us 2008 is still a fresh memory.  This is NOT a housing crisis. Rates are still great and there is still a ton of demand.  I also expect the shortage of available homes on the market to keep prices stable.

If you have questions, want to talk houses or just see if it's snowing, please feel free to reach out any time!

Wishing everyone health and safety!

-Stephanie