COVID19 Real Estate Protocols

Selling & Buying Real Estate during COVID-19 

Are you looking to make a move?  COVID-19 has affected us all and real estate is no exception.  If you're trying to sell your home or are looking to make a purchase, there are some guidelines set forth by the Florida Association of Realtors that professional agents are using to do their part.

No Matter Your Position on the Subject, showing Respect for Others' Property & the Protocols they expect, is right.  

COVID 19 Protocols from the Florida Association of Realtors

≫ Follow all CDC guidelines ≫ General guidelines • Practice social distancing. Stay 6 feet away from others. Avoid physical contacts such as hugs, handshakes, large gatherings and proximity. • Wash your hands. Frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is a well recognized preventative measure. • Cover your mouth and nose in public. Cover your mouth and nose with a mask when around others and in public. Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth. • Cover coughs and sneezes. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow. Throw used tissues in the trash. • Disinfect surfaces with the appropriate cleaning solutions. Frequently touched surfaces should be cleaned and disinfected daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, keyboards, toilets, faucets and sinks. Most common EPA-registered household disinfectants, diluted household bleach solutions and alcohol solutions will work. • Do NOT conduct open houses • Do NOT canvas neighborhoods in person (knock on doors, deliver door hangers, etc.) ≫ Whenever possible, conduct all showings virtually. This is the best social distancing technique. ≫ If it is necessary to show a property in person, plan ahead with the owner and the buyer or tenant. • Wear disposable gloves whenever possible. • Ask the owner to wipe down all surfaces before a buyer or tenant is granted access. • Advise buyers or tenants in advance that they need to bring and will be required to wear gloves and face coverings, and to avoid touching or adjusting their mask. • Consider market availability when requesting additional safety measures like hand sanitizer and personal protective equipment such as shoe coverings or masks. • Consider using the Florida Realtors® COVID-19/Coronavirus In-Person Access Acknowledgement form. • Limit showings to one group at a time to minimize contact, and schedule showings to allow time for needed cleaning of touched surfaces between showings. • Ask the buyer or tenant to limit the number of people viewing the property to only those necessary. • Ask the buyer or tenant to refrain from touching items unless necessary. • Ask the buyer or tenant to be efficient in minimizing the time physically at the property. • For vacant properties, discuss with the owner the plan for proper cleaning. Consider whether a professional cleaning service should be used or whether virtual showings are best. • Have the owner coordinate access for showings with the association, if needed. • Do NOT show property if you do not feel well. • Do NOT show property to someone who does not feel well. RISK CANNOT BE COMPLETELY ELIMINATED, but these are measures