COVID-19 and Real Estate

Amanda and I can't say for certain what will happen at the end of this pandemic, but so far we haven't noticed too many people scared away from Real Estate. We have continued to receive phone calls from buyers interested in purchasing and still have some sellers willing to show their homes. 

Here's the major changes though:
 

• Title Companies are limiting the number of people who can come to closings, some only allowing the signers. A few title companies have stated that they will only accept wire transfers to limit visits to the office. 
   
• Banks are closing their lobbies so wiring funds requires an appointment. We actually heard of a bank that allowed a wire transfer to be set up via a phone call.
   
• When showing homes we limit the things we touch. Rarely do we touch the light switches or open extra doors to the lanai. We use a lot of hand sanitzier and a lot of disinfecting wipes. We also have a stricter screening policy before we set up showings. Some sellers/tenants have asked that the homes not be shown. We are personally considering if we should stop showing houses, but have not made the final decision yet.
   
• Home inspectors have asked agents and buyers not to attend home inspections to limit exposure.
   

Our particular county has not shut down non-essential businesses at this time. The Florida Realtors Association did ask for Real Estate to be considered an Essential Business. Since it is not a state order at this point, I am not sure how each area will consider Real Estate. However, our understanding is that they are going to try to continue closings, mortagages, and home purchasing for the sake of the economy. We hope everyone takes precautions to keep them and their family safe!