What method best used to view out of state property remotely?

Question

My realtor did send me multiple video clips during the walkthrough but not sure if this is the best approach. What do you guys use? Maybe I can learn and minimize headaches.

Thanks in advance,

Robert

Allan C. · Answer

@Robert Flores I’ve purchased numerous properties remotely and my preferred method is to get pictures. Videos can give you quick perspective but they lack convenience and high definition if you need to zoom in.

I ask my agent to grab at least a dozen photos per generic room (corners, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, wide angle shots) and kitchens/baths need twice as many.

I’ve done many remote flips and general repairs years after purchasing a property, so the photos remain handy for the term of owning the property.

Brian Kantor · Answer

Hi, @Robert Flores. We bought 2 of our 3 properties out-of-state never having looked at them. One I've owned for 3 years and have never actually been inside (though I did once walk the perimeter).

@Ali Nichols is correct. Definitely "walk" the neighborhood via Google Streetview to make sure the area feels comfortable to you.

As for the property itself, I had my realtor do a Facetime walkthrough with me so we could view it together. I was able to ask him questions and he was able to explain what he saw. The big thing here is to make sure you're using an experienced agent who knows what to look for with regards to an investment property vs primary residence.

Look for "problems" and try to assign a cost to fix those problems as he/she walks through providing commentary. Good luck!

Ali Nichols · Answer

If the listing has a 3D walkthrough that is always helpful and the most efficient. Then other than that, it does come down to videos with your agent.

Something I always do is go to google earth and 'walk' around a bit and make sure I feel good about what I'm seeing on google streetview.

Travis Timmons · Answer

We've bought 2 out of state properties without seeing them in person via facetime tours and pictures, but we had spent some time on the ground at both out of state locations several times before buying (1 property was on the same street as another one that we own, so we were VERY familiar with the street/location). I would highly recommend you get on a plane if it is not a city or neighborhood that you are familiar with. Spend $600 on a flight and hotel as insurance against making a bad investment. There is no substitute for engaging all 5 senses.

Robert Flores · Answer

@Brian Kantor, look for problems... got it. Thank you!

Robert Flores · Answer

@Allan C. Brilliant! I will add your advice to my tools. Thank you!

Robert Flores · Answer

@Ali Nichols thank you. I appreciate the input.

What method best used to view out of state property remotely?

Most Popular Reply