Written by Jason Kritzberg on May 19th, 2021
With COVID-19 cases at an all time low and the state of California easing into opening up even more, you might be happy to see some new changes in the real estate world. Whether you are a buyer, seller, or a real estate agent the relaxation of COVID-19 Shown Property protocols and Open Houses are sure to make your life and business easier; in addition to making that sale come quicker!
Open Houses
Open Houses without the stress of appointments are back! Advertising of Open Houses is now permitted, subject to local requirements as long as all other COVID-19 protocols are followed, including social distancing. This is great news as you will be able to visit a new listing as easy as pre-pandemic, or if you are a realtor, you don’t have to worry about booking multiple appointments a day.
Just to note, some counties are still in a more restrictive tier and open houses are not allowed, so it is best to check with your local guidelines before visiting or conducting an open house.
What Restrictions are Still in Place?
Although they are easing the restrictions on appointments for Open Houses, some restrictions are still in place. Like masks. Face masks are still required for entry and hand sanitization, with all windows and doors open (weather permitting). There is still a sign-in requirement on-site. The new Property Sign-In (PSI) form can be used for this purpose. However, you can still sign a PEAD form on-site. The PEAD forms have been combined and simplified into one shorter PEAD-ALL form that is available if agents prefer to use it instead of the on-site sign-in protocols.
For the realtors only, you should still provide the Mandatory Government Showing Requirements, including Best Practices Guidelines and Prevention Plan, even if it is just a link. In addition, the property must be cleaned once a day consistent with the CDC guidelines. Most importantly, you should continue washing hands regularly and avoid touching surfaces, whether you are the realtor on-site or the buyer visiting the open house.
We are all excited to see California’s relaxation on these Open House rules, and look forward to even more regulations being relaxed in the near future, as COVID cases continue to decrease! If you are looking to buy or sell a home or visit an Open House contact your trusted realtor, Stephen White, today!
