In our last update regarding COVID-19 we noted the ways in which real estate was changing and adapting in the initial stages of the pandemic. As restrictions are easing in Stage 3, so have restrictions for real estate. Dufferin entered stage 3 last week, and will soon be welcoming our friends in Peel, so here’s what you need to know!

As you know, in the early stages of the pandemic in-person showings had been reduced, and open houses were banned. All initial viewings of the home were to be done virtually, via video chat or a virtual tour. In most cases, an in-person showing was only allowed once an offer had been presented.

However, real estate agents did eventually begin allowing private in-person showings, if the sellers felt comfortable allowing buyers into their homes. Showings were generally restricted to the agent and two adults. Children were allowed, but of course asked to stay with the parents at all times. Prior to the showing, the agent and all attendees had to sign a COVID-19 disclosure, verifying they had not travelled, knowingly been exposed, or shown symptoms etc. During the showing, everyone was asked to wear gloves and masks, and hand-sanitize prior to entering the home.

Home inspections rules were at the discretion of the home inspector. If they felt comfortable allowing the buyers to be present, the buyers were allowed to attend. The same rules for the showings applied here: masks, gloves, and hand sanitizer. In some situations the inspector would video-chat with the buyer(s), or only allow one buyer to be present.

As we enter Stage 3 all the above protocols still stand. In person showings still require a reduced number of people, and the use of PPE. The main change is open houses are now legally allowed by the government. Despite this change, the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) has recommended that open houses do not continue at this time. OREA has recommended that open houses are only held as a final effort in marketing a home, and of course only if the sellers are comfortable hosting one. Open houses are often quite lively and busy places, with many strangers coming in and out. It is a reasonable request that OREA has made, to prioritize the health of our clients, and the communities we work in.

The pandemic has forced a lot of reluctant agents into the age of technology. Many of the changes made will have a lasting impact on our industry in how we market and show homes. Features like virtual open houses, and video tours should continue. With the technology available to us, in person open houses could be a thing of the past.

That being said, open houses are no longer on the restricted list, so if you wish to hold one, or are attending one, here is what to expect. These rules and recommendations have been put in place by OREA.

Limited number of guests

Entry into the open house should be restricted to one group of two adults at a time, with social distancing between any parties not from the same household. Legally up to 50 people can be inside the residence at one time, however is not reasonable to expect 50 people could observe social distancing rules in the average home while attempting to tour it. Limiting the amount of time each group spends touring the residence, will ensure everyone is given a chance to tour the home. The open house visit should be used as a tool to quickly determine if a house suits the buyers needs. A private showing can be scheduled for a more thorough tour.

Self screening

A sign should be posted outside at the property’s entrance stating: if guests have been ill, have symptoms of COVID-19, or have come into contact with a person with symptoms or a confirmed case, they should not enter the home. Very similar to what we currently see posted outside most retail, restaurants and commercial spaces. Guests should be required to either sign a disclosure form or verbally confirm they do not have symptoms or been in contact with a person who has symptoms or a confirmed case.

Mask use

Masks should be worn by all guests while inside the home. Masks should be available at the entrance, in case anyone does not have one. Some municipalities (peel and dufferin included) currently mandate the use of masks anywhere business is being conducted. In those areas this would be a requirement and not a recommendation or ask.

Sanitize & Disinfect

On entry and exit hand sanitizer should be provided for guests. All surfaces, door handles, and parts of the home guests come in contact with should be disinfected before and after the open house.

Traffic Flow

If line ups from outside the residence, people should be staggered 6 feet apart. Signage and/or markers should be present to guide this behaviour. A second agent or assistant should be present to control the traffic coming into the home, and organize the line.

In the home, the agent should guide the tour and handle the touching of any surfaces (opening of cabinets, appliances, and doors).

Feature Sheets

Marketing materials like feature sheets should be available as an electronic copy.

Contact Tracing

Should anyone attending an open house report they have contracted COVID-19, all open house guests will need to be contacted. For this reason, correct names and contact information must be provided. As a guest of the open house, you should be able to indicate that you only wish to be contacted for this specific purpose and no other reason. By providing your information in this context, you would not be agreeing to marketing emails or phone calls etc.

Despite OREA’s recommendation I suspect we will see quite a few open houses in the near future. If you have been following us on social media you will have seen our market update, and the market is HOT. Houses are selling quickly and prices are increasing. This shows us open houses are not key to selling your house, so please do not feel pressure to have one if you are not comfortable.

If you are in the market to buy a house, work with a real estate sales person (obviously, I highly recommend using us). We can keep you up to date of new listings, and arrange private tours of homes you could be interested in. There is no need to wait in lines in the heat of the summer!

If you have any questions about real estate or how COVID has changed the game, we are here to help.

Stage 3 & Real Estate