SWINDON homeowners looking to sell their house during the coronavirus pandemic should not allow any in-person viewings, but should instead set up virtual walkaround using a video app.

That’s one of the key tips in a new guide for people on how to negotiate the crisis and still sell their home.

Author of the guide and founder of online estate agent Property Solvers Ruban Selvanayagam said: “Covid-19 has taken the whole industry by surprise.

"After the general election of 2019 and uncertainty surrounding Brexit, a refreshed sense of optimism was restored across the property market.”

Despite fresh uncertainty Mr Selvanayagam said many buyers and sellers are carrying on with sales agreed before the pandemic broke.

He added: “With social distancing rules in place, we’re seeing estate agents adapt their models to offer services like virtual viewings through social media channels such as Facebook Live and WhatsApp.

Mr Selvanayagam’s tips for vendors include:

:: Unless you really have to, reject any offers that are significantly under your asking price.  Although much will depend on how quickly this virus disappears, the market looks set to bounce back stronger once this is all over.

:: If you’re struggling to pay your mortgage, contact your lender immediately.  There’s a good chance of getting a payment ‘holiday’ (although bear in mind that you will still have to pay back what you owe plus any interest down the line).  Please do not bury your head in the sand.

:: Make sure your photos are looking good. With traffic on portals like Rightmove and Zoopla going through the roof as people are indoors, now’s the time to really make your house stand out.

:: Ensure you have an accurate floorplan for people to see the dimensions of your property.

:: Make sure the descriptions are well-written.  As well as all the details of the property itself, your estate agent should highlight the local amenities, schools, entertainment, green space, transport links and other features.

:: Do not show people around your property.

:: Ask your estate agent about virtual viewing tours and ways prospective buyers can get a good feel for your property without actually visiting.

:: Remember you can still sign any paperwork (the Post Office is functioning). Documents can also be signed digitally.

The guide is available at www.propertysolvers.co.uk/blog/coronavirus-selling-your-house