How to Buy a Home Online

From clothes to cars, we can buy just about anything online these days, including homes. Homes? Yes. Today’s modern technology allows you to purchase a new construction home without ever setting foot in a model home. Here’s how.

Use a Realtor

Today’s Realtors are very experienced in helping buyers purchase homes virtually, but it’s still a good idea to ask them how many buyers they have helped this way. Realtors can point you in the direction of websites that offer virtual tours of the communities and homes in the area you are looking to move to. They can tour models for you in real time, linking with you via video so you can ask questions. They can also help you with virtual or drive through closings.

Get Pre-approved for a Loan

You should get pre-approved for a loan even if you aren’t trying to buy online. That way, everyone knows what your budget is. It’s even possible to go through the loan process online. Rocket Loans and Quicken Loans are the most best known, but your Realtor can point you the direction of other lenders that might be willing to work with you virtually.

Take Virtual Tours

Master-planned communities like Grand Central Park offer virtual tours of their communities to help you imagine what your life could be like. Some of these are video tours, but you can also see pictures on their social media pages. Most builders post virtual tours of their model homes on their websites. Make a list of the communities and builders you are interested in. Be sure to make a list of all the things you like and don’t like, as well as any questions you might have.

Call the Builder’s Representative

Once you find a builder or builders you like, give their representatives a call. Many of them are willing to set up Zoom calls with you. They can answer all of your questions, help you look at floor plans and provide information on options and upgrades.

What’s Next?

Once you’re ready to buy, some builders are willing to set up a virtual appointment to go over your contract. Some will go one step further and allow you to visit the design center virtually to choose your options and upgrades. Electronic signatures are considered legal, so it is possible to sign your contact virtually as well.

What About the Closing?

What about all of those closing documents? Sometimes you will be able to do your closing electronically but if not, many lenders offer drive-thru closings where the documents are brought out to your car for you to sign.

Visit Grand Central Park (Online)

Ready to get started? Visit our video page to learn more about our community, our builders and our amenities. Then talk to our builders’ representative to see if you can do some or all of your purchasing online.