Navigating the Move to a New Rental During COVID-19
With widespread shelter in place orders, moving to a new rental place amid the ongoing pandemic has become a daunting prospect. This article explores the challenges, potential pitfalls, and safety measures to consider when moving during the current situation.
Challenges and Considerations
Shelter in place orders across the country make moving an unnecessarily risky and expensive endeavor. In these times, it is essential to weigh the pros and cons before deciding to move to a new rental place.
Increased health risks: The process of moving can expose you and those you interact with to potential health hazards, especially if social distancing guidelines are not strictly followed.
Financial strain: Moving can be a significant financial burden, particularly in an already uncertain economic climate.
Potential rent decreases: With the economy weakening, it’s possible that rents could drop significantly over the coming months as the economy enters another recession.
When Moving Is Unavoidable
Despite the challenges, there may be circumstances where moving is inevitable. Some of these reasons include:
The landlord putting the rental up for sale.
Your roommates wanting to move out and go home.
You experiencing a breakup and needing a change.
In such cases, it is crucial to take necessary precautions to minimize your risk and exposure to the virus.
Minimizing Risk During the Move
To mitigate the risks, focus on these key steps:
Starting with a Clear Plan
Having a well-defined plan can significantly reduce the chaos associated with moving. Determine what type of rental place you want, whether it is a 1-bedroom apartment or a smaller room. Be clear on your needs and stay focused on what is important to you.
Virtual Discussions
The majority of your discussions should take place online or over the phone. This method not only minimizes physical contact but also saves time. It is now common practice for Airbnb to operate entirely online, and realtors are increasingly relying on virtual tours.
Viewing Properties Safely
If you decide to see a property in person, ensure that:
You call or text the landlord an hour in advance to confirm the visit.
You arrive with proper identification, wearing a mask and gloves.
You limit the number of people to one.
You ensure the landlord is also taking precautions and presenting their ID.
The visit is limited to 15 minutes, and you are the only one that day.
All other discussions and paperwork can be handled electronically.
Real Estate Agency Perspectives
Real estate professionals advise against moving unless absolutely necessary. For instance, one landlord suggested offering short-term extensions of 3-5 months or longer-term extensions of 8-12 months. This approach ensures that tenants are not faced with an immediate financial burden while also reducing downtime for the property.
It is also worth mentioning that renting an vacant property is not ideal due to the lack of revenue during this period. Therefore, landlords prefer to maintain current tenants for as long as possible.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the complexities of moving during the current pandemic, while also offering insights from industry experts. Whether you are considering a move or simply looking for advice, following these steps can help minimize your risks and ensure a smoother transition.