Rethinking the Way We Sell Real Estate During the Pandemic

One of the questions I get asked the most from potential sellers is “Can we still sell our property during the pandemic?” The short answer is yes. All of us have been living with the pandemic since the early spring, and we have learned a lot about how to protect ourselves and keep ourselves safe. We have all had to alter how we live, work, and shop. It is no different in the way that we do real estate business during the pandemic. Certainly, it is not business as usual, but with proper safety protocols in place, it can be done.

We are currently entering a second wave of COVID resurgence, and as of November 5, 2020, the BCREA has recommended to all real estate agents to not hold these open houses. Of course, the exact recommendation varies from health region to region. Here in the Tri-Cities, until advised that we can do otherwise, we can provide a virtual open house or a very limited private showing. In the case of a private showing, extra caution and due diligence will be necessary to keep everyone safe. 

What are the showing safety protocols we need to follow?

My clients’ safety is vitally important to me. When you choose to list your home with me, rest assured that I have your best interests in mind when arranging a showing. First, it is important to discuss the different health risk factors and the precautions that will be taken to reduce the risk. These risks will depend on your family’s comfort level and the type of property you are listing. If and when you feel comfortable moving forward with selling your house, I will make sure your precautions are documented and the proper sanitization protocols are understood and agreed to. I will also review with you the latest safety protocols from the Provincial Health Office and WorkSafeBC, as well as from Royal LePage Sterling Realty. These protocols include sanitizing/washing your hands before entering and leaving the property, social distancing by limiting showings to one group at a time, and wearing protective masks. It requires that all of these efforts be enacted to keep everyone safe.

Leverage technology to help reduce in-person contact

To help reduce in-person interactions, there are a variety of technologies that can be used to have an open house or see a property remotely. Virtual tours (like 3D Matterport), photos, and floorplans go a long way to showing off your home before anyone walks through the door at an open house. 

Also, being pre-qualified will ensure that only the right buyers will be viewing your home, which also reduces the risk of infection because fewer people will be visiting your residence in person. 

What happens after the showings?

After the showing, it is recommended that the homeowners disinfect possible touchpoints, such as doorknobs and railings. Not doing so could put you and your family at risk.

Rethinking how we conduct an open house ensures that it can be done safely for you, your family, and the family of any potential buyer. I’m here to answer any questions you might have and guide you through the process.

If you have any questions about selling your home in the Tri-Cities, feel free to reach out.