Concerns about COVID-19 continue to increase across the country and around the world, and measures to deal with the illness are impacting our daily lives.

People looking to buy or sell a home in today’s environment are rightly asking whether they should continue their pursuit or wait until the situation improves.

It’s important to talk with your REALTOR® and make decisions based on the latest guidance from local health experts and relevant government agencies.  

Here are some COVID-19 resources to follow the latest guidance:

• BC Centre for Disease Control FAQ
• Health Canada: COVID-19 Prevention and Risks
• World Health Organization advice to the public

Everyone’s situation is unique. It’s important to discuss and assess your personal situation in terms of health, risk, and your short and long term housing needs.

First and foremost, it’s important for everyone to:

• not gather in groups of 50 or more people;
• stay home and avoid others if you feel ill;
• avoid all non-essential and self-isolate for 14 days if you’ve recently travelled abroad;
• regularly wash your hands;
• avoid social greetings such as handshakes; and
• limit social interactions that could lead to the spread of illness.

Beyond these considerations, you’ll want to talk with your Realtor about responsible ways to reach your housing goals.

If you’re a buyer, do you want to attend a showing of a home? Are there virtual showings and other technology-based alternatives to face-to-face encounters?

If you’re a seller, do you want to host a showing or an open house? If so, what limits and sanitary processes should you put in place?

Have these conversations with your Realtor.

This is a fast-evolving situation. Guidance from public health experts is changing daily. Be sure to follow the latest information from reputable sources.

Source: https://www.rebgv.org/news-archive/