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Homebuilder Adapts to Virus Distancing With Drive-Thru Closings

Homebuilder Adapts to Virus Distancing With Drive-Thru Closings

(Bloomberg) -- While Americans keep their distance, one big U.S. homebuilder has figured out how to keep deals moving.

Lennar Corp. is adapting to the coronavirus restrictions on social contact with “drive-thru” closings, allowing buyers to complete paperwork without ever leaving their cars.

The Miami-based builder, which began its earnings call Thursday by announcing that an employee in Seattle died from Covid-19, is making changes so transactions can be done safely, “with no human contact.” The company also said it plans to reduce costs without laying off employees as sales slow and will lean heavily on a digital platform to market houses and process deals.

Buyers can now take virtual tours of completed homes using FaceTime. Home inspectors are also using the app to limit interactions, the company said.

“We are accelerating our digital platform to accommodate our customers’ desire to close on their home but to close without risk of contact,” Executive Chairman Stuart Miller said on the call.

©2020 Bloomberg L.P.