COVID-19 and Real Estate

IS REAL ESTATE REALLY AN ESSENTIAL SERVICE?

The BC Government deemed “Real Estate Agent Services” to be an essential service allowing Realtors to continue to conduct business during the COVID-19 crisis. In most instances my service is NOT essential during these times, however, there are consumers that have little choice but to be active in today’s market despite COVID-19. I am carefully following the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver and Real Estate Council rules as they begin to allow open houses, provided Realtors and their clients follow their protocols while showing homes. Click here for the Board's safety guidelines.

Throughout the province, there are transactions in progress (i.e. waiting for subjects to be removed and/or awaiting completion) that cannot be put on hold while COVID-19 runs its course. Lenders, lawyers and Realtors continue to work together for a successful resolution for these individuals; this is essential. Much of this is now completed in electronic form to minimize face-to-face meetings.

There are those who must sell or purchase, despite the pandemic, due to job loss, death or a change in family and/or financial circumstance. Additionally, there are those who contractually agreed to buy or sell a home prior to the spread of COVID-19 that risk being without a place to live or in financial ruin, if they are stuck owning multiple properties that they cannot afford. My services are essential to these individuals who cannot wait for the pandemic/social distancing to pass. In these circumstances, I am following the recommended health protocols to ensure client safety while continuing to provide the highest level of service.

For those not requiring immediate action, I recommend we all follow the government mandate to stay home and practice social distancing. I am here to help. The health of my family, friends and clients is most essential at present and this guides my current business practices.

HOW WE HAVE ADJUSTED AT PIGOTT PROPERTIES

or those who must sell, I have redirected my print media budget to social media campaigns/advertising and additional media collateral to provide prospective buyers a better look at your property prior to a physical viewing. I am screening all interested parties harder than ever to ensure there are no unnecessary showings.  If a buyer wishes to view a property they must sign a waiver, which includes the following statements:

BUYING

These methods are leading to successful sales throughout the lower mainland. This is a natural evolution in the real estate industry that I believe will continue even beyond COVID-19.

Below are two examples of the services utilized to re-launch/present a stunning North Vancouver penthouse that was listed prior to the COVID-19. I am re-investing and retooling my marketing on each listing as I am as committed as ever to deliver a successful outcome for each client, even during these times.

BUYING
BUYING

My assistant and I are working full-time to take our online marketing to the next level and to further our client services. The “slow-down” has provided time for us to reflect and evaluate how we can do better for you, now and in the future.

If you are in a situation where you must buy or sell during these times, I am happy to provide a more detailed description as to my other services that will lead to success in today’s market.

THE IMPORTANCE OF ROYAL LEPAGE

I am very fortunate to work with Royal LePage, a Canadian company. As a leader in real estate services, our avenues of business arrive locally, nationally and internationally. Our nationwide presence becomes more predominant when we face tough times like today

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