Shelter in place, social distancing, protective face covering, flattening the curve, contact tracing…phrases that were not part of our vocabulary 4 months ago are now everyday conversation.  The coronavirus curve did start to flatten so some restrictions were loosened, but now COVID-19 is on the rise!  We are starting to hunker down again and bringing back those puzzles and games, but what else is there to do?  Surprising as it may sound, people are still purchasing homes during Coachella Valley Puzzling Times!

Real estate was deemed an essential business but with state added guidelines to keep people safe. First, buyers are encouraged to view homes virtually via still photos and video/virtual tours.  Those tools help buyers weed out homes but buyers generally, as the next step, want to tour the home in person because buying a home is an emotional process. For the in-person viewing, buyers and agents must wear masks, practice social distancing, avoid touching surfaces and items in the house and wash or sanitize hands.  Homes need to be disinfected before and after showing. Buyers and agents sign a Property Entry Advisory and Declaration where the person signing declares they are not aware that they have COVID-19 and agree to follow the proper sanitation procedures.

Despite the additional steps in the home buying process, serious buyers are venturing out in this uncertain environment and following the rules!  As a result, inventory is low in Coachella Valley and prices are steady and in some cases, slightly rising.  With the effects of coronavirus in densely populated areas, the desert is very desirable as there is less crowding, more space and secure gated communities.  Many homes have backyards and pools, the perfect living space to shelter in place. 

The Coachella Valley housing market continues to be healthy even in the face of this pandemic. Hopefully the coronavirus curve will start to flatten again soon as people become diligent about protecting themselves and others. To get to healthy times, its back to indoor activities and pastimes conducive to staying at home for these Coachella Valley Puzzling times.  If you need information on the local desert real estate market, please contact me.  I’m here with face mask, hand sanitizer, bacterial wipes and booties.