Monthly Archives: June 2020

Life and work in the COVID-19 era

The trend of working from home was already in motion even before the pandemic forced many organizations to impose work-from-home policies. This new reality got us thinking about our working arrangements.

Buyers increasingly list home office among their must-haves

For some people, working from home is a regular practice. But for many, it’s a new way of working — and presents new challenges. The year 2020 will be remembered as a watershed moment for telecommuters. But home offices aren’t just for those who work from home. Technology has made all of us more mobile and younger buyers, in particular, have more options than ever to work from  home.

Invest in the things that matter

Moving.com suggests you need a comfortable chair; a desk you can spread out at; and the technology that will help you do the best job possible. Storage is also a must for a well-designed home office. You’re going to be spending a lot of time in this space, so it’s important that it is as functional as possible.

Should sellers stage an extra bedroom as a home office?

Ten years ago, home offices were more of a luxury home feature than a necessity. But as more careers are compatible with telecommuting, things have changed. Here are a few office-staging ideas to consider:

• Choose an appropriate location in your home that makes sense; buyers want a dedicated space with quick access to the front door.
• Remove all the clutter and keep only the essentials: desk, chair, lamp, bookshelf, and potentially an area rug.
• Choose practical design features, e.g., calming paint colors, stylish organizers, appropriate furniture.

Reach out if you’re in the market for a new place to call home or have questions about making your home office more appealing.

The coronavirus pandemic has changed life and work across the U.S. and beyond.  Since March, home has a new meaning; it’s our office; our children’s classrooms and playground; our gym; and restaurant. Sterling Real Estate is open for business but the safety of our associates and our clients is priority #1. To that end, we’ve established a few guidelines for home buyers and sellers:

For Buyers

• We are happy to show you available properties in the greater Bloomington area. In addition to video tours on our website, we offer pre-recorded and real-time video walk-throughs.
• If sellers permit showings, we will meet you at the property wearing our masks and practicing social distancing . We’ll open the door, provide booties and masks, and remain outside while you tour the house. In-person tours are limited to no more than two people at a time.

The silver lining for buyers

• • Historically low interest rates increase your buying power
  • Fewer people in the market means less competition when making offers
  • Sellers may be more flexible on pricing and timing

For Sellers

Springtime, traditionally, is the best time to sell a home. Despite the current environment, we are helping motivated sellers move forward. Because of COVID-19, we are adapting our services to the changing real estate environment.

• Sterling Real Estate is happy to meet with you, following safety measures to discuss the listing process. We’ll prepare a Comparative Market Analysis to help you understand the current market dynamics.
• We’ll do a walk-through of your home; take measurements; discuss the improvements you’ve made; and professionally photograph your home. Then we’ll be prepared to suggest a price range to market your home, as well as the cost associated with selling your home.
• We’ll take advantage of the latest technology to show your home through 3D and virtual tours as well as live or prerecorded video walk-throughs. With your approval, we will monitor and limit all physical showings to no more than two people at a time, practicing social distancing with masks and booties.

As always, feel free to reach out if you have any questions at (812) 333-1966!