Although Real Estate Services and Realtors are deemed “Essential”, it is definitely not business as usual!
In order to maintain Social Distancing, and to minimize gatherings of more than 5 people, Open Houses are no longer being hosted. Therefore, a potential Buyer needs to have a Realtor book a property showing on their behalf.
Booking a showing used to be as easy as the Buyer’s agent calling the Listing agent’s office or booking online, and usually receiving a confirmation within a short period of time.
Now, under the confines of COVID-19, there is a much more rigorous set of procedures to be adhered to, before a showing appointment will be granted. Only serious Buyers are being invited to proceed. The Seller’s home must be respected and the time spent inside be well prepared and brief.
The agent and prospective Buyer must learn everything there is to know about the property prior to seeing it: watch the virtual tour, learn about the neighbourhood, schools, commute times, amenities, etc. If the property is still of interest after this investigation, at that point, it is appropriate to request an appointment.
Most brokerages require a health declaration be completed by anyone intent on viewing a property. Questions include:
Do you have any symptoms of COVID-19?
Have you been exposed to anyone who has contracted COVID-19?
Have you travelled in the past 14 days?
Buyers and their agents are expected to wear gloves before entering the home, to keep their hands in their pockets and not touch light switches, doors, drawers or any surfaces. The Realtor is expected to have sanitizing wipes to clean the lockbox and door knobs. Children are not allowed in the home.
Once the showing appointment has been completed, the Buyer’s agent should share feedback with the Listing agent. Above all, be safe!
Post a comment