COVID-19 and Real Estate

(Last updated March 30 2023)

It seems that Covid 19 has moved from the headlines to the inside pages in the news. While we seem to be headed back to a somewhat more normal life, we are just coming out of the  cold and flu season. 

There are currently no changes to recommendations on how we handle real estate listings and showings. 

The term ‘Open House’ has evolved from an outright ban in 2020 to several modified versions once it was reinstated. The open front door with crowds of potential buyers and curious neighbours streaming through may take some time to return; however, scheduled ‘Open House’ times are back. Agents may restrict the number of people in the home at one time and masks may continue to be required during showings and open houses.
 
Safety practices for open houses will continue to focus on enforcing public health protocols. Hygiene practices will largely depend on input from home owners, tenants and the listing agent.
 
It continues to be important to have good photos, floorplans, details of maintenance history and renovations. 3D tours have become more common.
 
Buyers have less time and access for tire kicking, so they need help to interpret details on property listings. Access to property history, documents, knowledge of construction details and neighborhoods all help to facilitate the buyers need to armchair search for a home.

Technology continues to help with the process. Document scanning with a smart phone and digital signing of documents are now indispensable tools.

If you have any questions, concerns or just need to chat, please pick up the phone and call me. If I can assist you in any way, don’t be afraid to as