Covid-19 & Real Estate

Like all others, the Real Estate Industry has been impacted by COVID 19. As realtors, how we function in our business has changed and will continue to do so as we gain more insight into this pandemic.  But it also means there are necessary compromises from buyers and sellers. Most important, we can still accomplish our real estate goals while doing our best to ensure each-others safety.

Below is a summary statement for CAR (California Association of Realtors) of the current established industry realtor guidelines for showing a property.
Step 1: Adopt a “Prevention Plan” using Mandatory Government Showing Requirements, Including Best Practices Guidelines and Prevention Plan.

Step 2: Do not hold “traditional” open houses or showings that are open to the general public on a walk-in basis.  The use of an appointment or digital sign-in process is allowed as long as established guidelines are followed.  Showings should be done virtually, whenever possible.

Step 3: All visitors must sign a PEAD-V (Posted “Rules for Entry Showings”) form and deliver it electronically to the listing agent in advance. Doing this accomplishes several things:

1. a) It is an agreement that the visitor will comply with the Posted “Rules for Entry Showings”
2. b) The visitor acknowledges receiving and agrees to the Prevention Plan; and
3. c) The visitor attests they are not, to the best of their knowledge, afflicted with COVID-19, among other things.

Step 4: The Posted Rules for Entry must be posted at the entrance to the property and be clearly visible. Also link to or publish these rules in MLS listings and publicly online.

Step 5: The property must be equipped with hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes. Face coverings are to be available in case any person did not bring their own.​

Step 6: The property must be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Commonly used surfaces such as counters, door and cabinet handles, key lock boxes, keypads, toilets, sinks, light switches, etc., must be cleaned and disinfected before and after each showing.  The agent who shows the property shall follow cleaning and disinfecting protocols and provide sanitation products unless otherwise agreed.

Step 7: Open doors and windows, weather permitting, to introduce fresh air. Also, doors and other areas of ingress and egress must be opened to minimize clients touching surfaces.

Step 8: Prior to or immediately upon entry, all visitors must use hand sanitizer or wash their hands with soap and water before touring or inspecting the property.