The very idea of purchasing something as monumental as a home without touring it in person makes many people nervous. And granted, it’s not ideal. There are certain aspects of a house that can’t be fully captured without actually being there. But for some buyers—like those moving long distances or who have other extenuating circumstances—it’s simply not possible to be present to tour all the listings their agent sends their way.
Fortunately, with a little help from modern technology and your best possible resource—your agent—it is possible to take the plunge with a measure of confidence.
Tips for Buying Sight-Unseen
Make use of 3D video tours. A virtual walk-through of the home is a must. Quality videos will give you an overall sense of the layout, the lighting, and the space. In conjunction with listing photos, 3D video tours should help you visualize the property as it appears in person.
Rely on a trusted agent. An experienced agent who knows the local market can be your best resource when buying from a distance. They can take you on personalized video tours and point out things that might not be visible or noticeable on listing media. They’ll also be able to provide some insight into the local market so that, if you choose to move forward in the process, you can put in a reasonable offer based on real market data.
Research, research, research. Make sure you have a good handle on not just the house you’re interested in buying, but the location. Consider schools, safety, proximity to amenities, commute times, and other details that are important to you. You can learn more about a neighborhood in the Local Details section on any Nestfully listing. Your agent is also a good resource, and some smart internet sleuthing can yield valuable information.
Try to be there for the inspection.Even if you’re not able to tour the home before you put in an offer, you should include a home inspection contingency in the contract—and make every effort to be present for it. This will allow you the chance to not just see your home-to-be, but to determine if there are any deal breakers involved.
Start Your Home Search on Nestfully
While it’s strongly encouraged to tour a home before making an offer, we’re happy to stand behind the quality and timeliness of the listing information you’ll find on Nestfully. Head on over, connect with an experienced local agent, and get your home search on the road!
