Sound Off: How has the pandemic changed what homebuyers will be looking for in the coming year?
Q: How has the pandemic changed what homebuyers will be looking for in the coming year?
A: The COVID-19 Pandemic has had a profound impact on what most potential homebuyers are seeking in today’s market. One might say that it has truly created a “paradigm shift” in what is now most desirable.
The lengthly “Shelter-in-Place” orders that we in California have been experiencing, with more people working from home, and children participating in home-schooling online, have highlighted the need for additional space in our homes for home offices, play rooms, etc. Gardens have become important as they provide peaceful enjoyment of outdoor space and recreation possibilities as well.
Buyers have expanded their geographical search to include less crowded areas. The “walk-to-coffee” imperative that buyers were formerly seeking, with a more urban location, is far less often a priority now.
Single family residences are often preferred, providing privacy, distance from others, and less of a need to spend time in shared spaces (elevators, lobbies, etc.)
Properties in our East Bay neighborhoods offering these amenities have appreciated significantly in value. Inventory remains critically low, and we continue to see multiple-offers on most homes in this highly competitive marketplace.
Now, more than ever, it is of utmost importance to work with a trusted, real estate professional if moving is on your “wish list” for 2021. Happy house hunting.
Starr*Schaefer Team, Karen Starr, the Grubb Co., 510-414-6000, starr@grubbco.com; Brenda Schaefer, the Grubb Co., 510-453-2401, bschaefer@grubbco.com.
A: The pandemic has changed how we live our day-to-day life. Buyers are...