One of the few benefits of 2020 and the Coronavirus pandemic is the low interest mortgage rates. An unprecedented year for many reasons, mortgage rates across the country have hit historic lows not once, not twice, but eight times this year. They are expected to drop even more as we head into the fourth quarter. Arguably both a seller’s and buyer’s market, 2020 is the perfect time to move.
Even with several reasons to move, Coronavirus may still be a deterrent for some. However, with these expert suggestions, it is possible to take advantage of the real estate market and stay safe at the same time.
1. Take the Necessary Precautions:
Treat your moving process like any other activity during a global pandemic.
WEAR THE NECESSARY PROTECTIVE GEAR: You and your whole family should wear masks during the actual move. If you are traveling over a long distance, wear gloves when you stop for gas and eat in your car if you have to stop to get food.
WASH YOUR HANDS: Wash hands early and often during the entire process – especially if food and restroom breaks or any other stops are made.
SOCIALLY DISTANCE: Prior to your move, you and your family should avoid any social gatherings or unnecessary outings to ensure everyone stays healthy leading up to the move. Stay home and pack instead of venturing out to avoid contracting the virus. Moving can be a strenuous process. There is no need to bring a debilitating illness into the mix.
2. Clean and Disinfect Your New Home Before You Move In
It is vital that you ensure the new home you are moving into is clean and disinfected. There are two options to do this:
DEEP CLEAN IT YOURSELF: Prior to y our move, take over a load of cleaning supplies and disinfect your new home from top to bottom.
HIRE A PROFESSIONAL CLEANING SERVICE: If packing has already taken its toll on you, spend the money to hire a professional cleaning service to thoroughly clean and sanitize your new home for you. Like any professional service, they will do a better job with better products in a shorter amount of time.
3. Hire a Professional Moving Company
Hiring a moving company to help you move during the Coronavirus pandemic may add a few steps to the usual process, but it will be well worth it in the long run. The same way a professional cleaning service will save you time and effort while also doing a better job, a professional moving company will also make your moving experience significantly easier.
Here are a few precautions you can take for a safe and easy move:
TRANSPARENCY: Let your movers know if you or anyone in your household have symptoms resembling the Coronavirus. Timetable adjustments can be made to ensure everyone’s safety.
ENFORCE PRECAUTIONS: Reputable moving companies understand the risks and will gladly take the necessary precautions to avoid contracting or spreading the Coronavirus. However, if anyone needs reminding of these precautions, be vocal and ask them to wear a mask, wash their hands, etc.
2020’s “Stay at Home” theme doesn’t specify which home you have to stay at: your current home or a new one. With historically low interest mortgage rates, it is an extremely advantageous time to move if the necessary precautions are taken. With these suggestions, you can stay safe and move smart!