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Even as some iBuyers across the country have paused operations thanks to the coronavirus outbreak, one firm with a similar model is continuing operations, albeit remotely.

HomeVestors, the firm behind We Buy Ugly Houses, announced last week it is now offering free phone and video consultations during the COVID-19 outbreak. In addition to answering standard consultation questions, sellers will be encouraged to either send in photographs, or take buyers on a video walkthrough of the property in order to verify the condition of the home. Following the tour, the company’s franchisees may make a cash offer to buy the house “if it makes sense for both parties.” An in-person closing appointment will be made after the pandemic abates, the announcement states.

Zillow announced Zillow Offers was pausing its homebuying operations March 23 in all 24 markets where it currently operates.

“Our top priority is ensuring the safety and health of our employees, customers, and partners. Given the concerns for public safety and rapid developments by governments that restrict local real estate activities, we determined it was prudent to pause our home buying to preserve our capital,” Zillow Group CEO Rich Barton said in a statement at the time. “We plan to restore Zillow Offers full operations once health concerns pass and local health orders are lifted. In the meantime, we are working to support our customers and partners in these uncertain times when home has never been more important.”

To market and sell the 1,860 homes Zillow Offers has in its inventory, the company said it was turning to 3-D virtual tours.

HomeVestors said its decision was motivated by the state’s stay-at-home advisories and rising buyer and seller concerns, despite the designation of real estate services as “essential” ones which can continue to operate during the pandemic.

Amid iBuyer Halts, We Buy Ugly Houses Still Buying in Boston

by Banker & Tradesman time to read: 1 min
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