I have used Facetime for virtual meetings, too. The thing to remember is that you need the wi fi passcode to use this product. So vacant homes or homes without wi fi set up would necessitate Skype. It adds speed to the search process if the missing partner can break from work or vacation schedules to join the virtual walk through. What a great tool to add to your a Realtor toolbox! Give it a try. Practice first!
Can't Meet Me At The Listing? Let's Skype!
I know that there is really nothing better than seeing something in person. There is a sense of home that's hard to imagine without being in a place personally. That said, we are in a very healthy market and when you are not immediately available to see a property, there are alternatives so that you don't miss a great place.
There was a market not that long ago when we would need to write offers in the morning and then see the homes that evening...just because things were moving that fast. We are not seeing that in my market right now, but good homes are still moving quickly.
While you might have time to get out that evening to see a home, you may miss it if you are considering a weekend showing. Worse yet, you might be out of the area and interested in moving to South Orange County or Lake Arrowhead. I'm here to help! :)
For many years I've worked with relocation clients. I think that one of the aspects to being a successful relocation agent is being a community ambassador. It's important to help those coming from other places to really understand the lifestyle of their potential environment.
This really can't be done via Internet.
It can't truly be done by Skype either, but it's a great step forward when in person showings and visits are limited or non-existent. One of the services I offer to all my clients is the Skype Showing. This is a great tool. It's only a tool and not necessarily the very best way to buy a home, but in lieu of an in person visit, it's a great next option.
A Skype Showing is an in depth and interactive touring of a listing. The advantage is that it can be done while the buyer is at work, on vacation, in a car....anywhere. When a morning listing alert shows a home that "might be perfect" we need to move rather quickly. In the past, when I've heard the panicked wail from a client about the "perfect home," I've had nothing to suggest but a blind offer. Even a few extra videos taken during a preview were often insufficient. I had to guess as to what they wanted to see...and who opens drawers or looks out bathroom windows on video?
A Skype Showing solves this problem.
I will contact the listing agent for permission and then head to the property. Once there, we can log into Skype and then the buyer can direct the tour. By using the Skype technique, I can actually take my client on a true visual tour, panning left and right on command.
I've found that this has been very successful for out-of-the-area clients, or even those with busy schedules. Even those who have time to race out for the "right property" might not have time to view the local pool or park. No problem....I'll Skype-you-in.
There is no way to replace the traditional personal visit to a home. But rather than miss a great home, why not try a Skype Showing? With all the built-in contingencies of a home purchase in South Orange County and Lake Arrowhead, you have plenty of time to personally investigate. By using the technology tools online (such as Google Earth and MLS), a Skype Showing and the knowledge and experience of me...your agent...you can often gain enough information to at least start the process on a great property. Certainly better than missing out due to a family wedding or business meeting.
KAREN FIDDLER Dre no. 01494165
Broker/AssociateHÔM SOTHEBY'S INTERNATIONAL REALTY M 949.510.2395 KarenpFiddler@gmail.com
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