There is no question that COVID 19 has affected us globally. The one question consumers have been asking is “Is Real Estate an essential business?”. The answer according to the Georgia Association of Realtors is YES, but that does not mean Business as usual.
Business must continue in Real Estate and what we have been doing is taking the extra precautions to keep ourselves and our clients safe during this pandemic.
For Buyers, Realtors have been utilizing virtual showings or going to homes being extra cautious not to touch belongings.
Please keep in mind, showings of homes are only for active buyers with a current loan approval looking to move immediately.
Per Georgia Association of Realtors:
“In the event that an in-person property viewing is deemed critical, the showing should be restricted to only the actual signer of the lease or sale agreement, and social distancing guidelines and best practices must be followed, such as use of hand sanitizer, gloves and booties to cover shoes.
Listing agents should ask sellers to turn on all lights and open all closet/cabinet doors to keep touching to a minimum.
Buyer agents should leave the house as it was found and wipe down all door knobs, light switches etc., with a disinfectant wipe if contact is necessary.
The overlapping of showings is prohibited, and a minimum of 45 minutes should be scheduled between all showings at a property. Additionally, any homes that have experienced foot traffic should be thoroughly cleaned. “