If you have not bought or sold a home in Connecticut in a few years (or maybe decades) it is likely that there are more than a few new trends in real estate that you will encounter as you begin to interview real estate agents.
One particular trend now common among many real estate brokerage firms around Connecticut is called the practice of “going paperless.” This can be a bit scary for some people, especially senior adults who are not accustomed to using computers in their personal or professional lives.
If you are one of the many with reservations about the paperless process, you will want to talk with one of my agents about any concerns or questions you have. In this article I have provided some basic information about the paperless process and some key questions to ask a real estate agent at Dave Jones Realty.
What does it mean to go paperless?
Going paperless simply means that instead of printing out every contract, form or disclosure for your signature, you may be asked to sign certain documents electronically.
This could mean:
- Typing your name into a designated field included in a form (received via email)
- Signing your name on a digital touchpad (laptop, netbook, smartphone, etc.)
While some have experienced this type of technology before and are perfectly willing and comfortable using it, others are not. Frankly, the first time I was asked to sign a real estate document electronically via email I was a bit perplexed and required some guidance.
If you have not been exposed to this type of technology, it can seem a little overwhelming, especially if introduced to it in the midst all of the other things going on during a move. This is why it’s important to educate yourself on the front end, mitigating potential delays, avoiding unnecessary frustration, and preventing surprises down the road.
Here are 5 simple questions you should ask before you ‘sign on the dotted line’
1. How do you typically communicate with your clients (phone, email, text, instant messaging, etc.)?
My agents know that the best method (and frequency) of communication is the one that best serves the client, so getting this agreed upon early in the relationship is paramount — for both you an agent at my brokerage.
If you want to communicate strictly by phone, be sure that you and the agent agree on the protocols for leaving and returning messages, hours of availability, and which phone numbers are best for certain times of day. Similar discussion around email, text messaging, and other modes of communication should be had as well, if that is your desired method of information delivery.
2. What method(s) do you use for getting client signatures?
The goal here is to find out your options. My agents are more than willing to help make this an easy, and comfortable experience. My agents can help educate you on how to sign electronically, or via paper, if that is what you prefer.
3. Can you assess my devices to insure they are compatible with the systems you use?
Even if you are completely prepared to enter the paperless world with no reservations whatsoever, it can only be done if you have the right equipment. Before agreeing to a paperless process, ask my agent to do a “test run” using a non-official/non-binding document on your system to insure its functionality.
4. Will you provide technical support if I am not “techy” and need some help?
My dad (self described “non-techy” and proud of it), has a computer, printer, smart phone, email address, and wifi. He does not, however, have the faintest idea how they work or how to pull up attachments in his email.
When he decided to purchase a new home this past year using a reverse mortgage, the lender was located out of state, which meant everything was done via email — electronically. Needless to say, I was dad’s tech support in this situation. My agents can serve as trusted advisers who are capable, patient, and willing to personally walking you through the steps and troubleshooting potential technology issues.
5. Are you flexible if I choose to use phone and paper over electronic communication and documentation?
Options are the key. My agents are extremely flexible in how they deliver their services. They are willing and able to do what is right for you, based on your comfort level, knowledge, and ability.
Bottom Line
It goes without saying that it is critical to have the conversation with a real estate professional at Dave Jones Realty about paperless processes and communication methods.
Not only will doing so put your mind at ease regarding unfamiliar territory, but it may also provide your agent with necessary information so we can serve you more effectively.