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

A Word to the Wise Buyers on the Search during the COVID-19

Buyers Looking for Homes During COVID-19 

Are you a buyer that has to move and needs to be looking for homes right now?  Have your plans been upended because there is a lack of inventory to consider or you are unsure if your loan will be approved during this time?

The home buying process can be stressful already, without the injection of the pandemic we experience today.  While each market is different, ours still has buyers that for one reason or another, are on a short timeline to make a purchase.  Some sellers in the area have halted showings and some have chosen to continue to allow showings, but with restrictions.  These dynamics make it more important than ever to enlist the help of an experienced Realtor.  While much of what is happening these days is unchartered territory, you'll want those that have a circle of professionals that are well versed in everything from finance, inspections, appraisals, and repairs to help you to make informed decisions and to watch for any red flags that may lie ahead.

Some general items for every buyer to consider during COVID:

1. Hire an experienced Realtor
2. Have frank discussion with your lender on your job status and income streams
3. Create a back up plan in the event your closing is delayed
4. Be flexible.  You may need to look at homes virtually through your agent to narrow possibilities.
5. Wear a mask and gloves to any in person showings

Why do you need to speak to a Realtor Now?

Because many sellers are reluctant to list their homes at this time, agents will have knowledge of future inventory so that you can be kept apprised of what to expect and any properties that could be possibilities.

If we can be of help to you and your families, please feel free to contact Mark Card or Jennifer Card at 386-566-8091.

Pinnacle Park Port Orange Home Under Contract

Port Orange Jewel Alert!!

Sale pending!! This GATED PINNACLE PARK home is super clean & barely lived in. From the tiled living areas, to the HUGE KITCHEN that is open to the nook, dining and great room area, the SMART LAYOUT utilizes every possible space as FUNCTIONAL to optimize ENERGY EFFICIENCY. There are PLANTATION SHUTTERS throughout the home which adds to the aesthetics as well. The master bedroom has large walk-in closet & the bathing area has a separate shower & soaking tub. The PRIVACY FENCED back yard is gorgeous & easy to enjoy from the extended porch that is TILED & SCREENED. Pinnacle Park is a GATED COMMUNITY close to A+ SCHOOLS, the PORT ORANGE PAVILION, GROCERY & BANKING. There is also a gorgeous CLUBHOUSE & COMMUNITY POOL.

Check out our virtual tour down below

For Help Buying or Selling Your Home Call Mark Card (386)-566-8091

Open Sunday 1-3! 812 Wingate Trail Port Orange PINNACLE PARK

Port Orange Open House!

If you are on the hunt for a home in a gated community, that is just around the corner from A+ schools, and perfect for families, come check out our open house at 812 Wingate Trail, Port Orange, FL 32128. 1-3 pm on 
Sunday November 11th. 

The direct contact movement

The Direct Contact Movement

 Being in direct contact with a top producing realtor in Port Orange, can help you maximize your real estate investment goals 

In today's society technology is more relevant that ever. You can use your phone or computer to do just about anything. In some ways it's a good thing, it makes our lives easier and more convenient, but it can do some damage as well. People forget about the basic act of communicating to a person directly, not by using a robot voice recording or a chat room. Most real estate agents are moving towards the technology side of things, but the top producing agents are doing just the opposite. The top producing agents are putting themselves in direct contact. By taking the time to pick up a phone and connect with someone, you are creating a bond, forming a trust between you and the clients. Not only does it help form connections but it helps things run more smooth and efficiently. 

To get into direct contact with a realtor about buying for selling your home call Mark Card (386)566-8091