Uprooting is a big step for homeowners. Luckily, there are specific ways to help relocation homebuyers.
Some of our favorite ideas include:
- Focus on schools. School ratings are important to not only families with children, but to all buyers thanks to their impact on resale value. Make sure you can easily direct clients to online sources of information about the schools serving your area.
- Emphasize convenience. While not always at the forefront of a buyer’s mind, proximity to frequented places is important for a high quality of life. Show the buyer the nearest grocery store, gym, library and wherever else they plan to go on a regular basis.
- Especially for homebuyers who relocate to take a new job, a direct route from their new home to their new job significantly impacts their daily life. Educate them on their options for public transportation, the general traffic flow for the area and access to major highways.
- Help buyers see what is special about their potential new neighborhood. Does it have a unique coffee shop or store? Is there a large park nearby? Learning more about the neighborhood can be a large factor in choosing to buy.
- Ask the buyer about their favorite part of their last neighborhood. If possible, find something comparable near their new home.
It can be difficult to balance your desire to be a helpful resource while sticking to the Fair Housing Act’s anti-steering rules. REALTOR® Mag by the National Association of REALTORS® offers these tips to help clarify the types of questions you can answer, versus those you should redirect elsewhere.
Overall, easing your buyer’s mind is paramount. While moving to a new location can be challenging, it also creates opportunities that would not exist without the move. Helping your buyer find a neighborhood that is a good fit is good for them and for you.
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