Navigating Real Estate During Coronavirus
Navigating the real estate market in light of COVID-19 has been confusing for many home buyers and sellers. As trusted advisors, we felt that it was our responsibility to inform our clients and offer creative solutions while ensuring we protect the health and well-being of our community.
On March 27th, Governor Jay Inslee released a memo that addressed changes to the original restrictions of the Stay Home, Stay Healthy proclamation which included amendments to Real Estate and Mortgage Service Operations. While many are waiting for the virus to pass, there are others reliant on real estate to continue as an essential service.
Now deemed essential, brokers are allowed to continue working as long as they meet recommendations by the CDC and shift services to practice safe social distancing, proper sanitizing and the guidelines/protocols mandated by the memo.
We’ve been offering virtual tours for our buyers to limit their exposure during this time. For sellers, we’re utilizing creative digital solutions to bring their home to life online including, but not limited to, photography, property videos, 3D virtual tours, and more.
Washington Realtors have written up frequently asked questions which reference the guidelines that include but are not limited to:
No open houses
Home showings by appointment only
Only two persons allowed in a home at a time, including the representing agent
In-person meetings only permitted when necessary for showings and document signings
Scheduled inspections and appraisals for pending transactions
Buyer walk-throughs for pending transactions prior to closing
Providing keys to buyers at closing
Thanks to advances in technology, many of the traditional aspects of real estate can be done online. Our community’s health is a top priority, which is why we will continue to adapt services to meet real estate needs while ensuring public health and safety.
Please reach out if you have any questions about the current real estate market or how we can help. For more information, the Northwest Multiple Listing Service has provided additional details supporting the memo: click here.