We would like you to know that we take the COVID-19 issue very seriously. To this point, none of our staff or staff at the Richmond RE/MAX Franchises have contracted or been in contact with the virus that we are aware of.
In light of all that is happening currently, we would like to reach out to our clients and let you know the precautions and procedures we have implemented to protect the health of our clients and staff. Of course, these steps and the limitations imposed are evolving hourly as new information becomes available.
We are conducting business remotely as much as possible:
1. Utilizing digital technology for signing.
2. Whenever possible staff is working remotely from home.
3. Using the latest video-conferencing technology for ongoing meetings and discussions.
4. Using phone, text, email, Facebook Messenger, Video Conferencing and more to eliminate the need for in-person meetings as much as possible.
In marketing our listings, we are already ahead of the game with the use of viewing technology and Video. Together with offering our Buyers the option of real-time WhatsApp, Messenger and Facetime Walk-Throughs, these options will play a larger role than ever in previewing properties.
If you or anyone in your family, or any visitors to your home have been recently sick, are expressing any symptoms we ask that you reschedule your showing appointment. We promise to do the same.
We have requested any agent with a client showing symptoms to refrain from showing at this time. We also have asked for agents not to bring clients on showings if they have returned from travelling outside of Canada within the last 14 days. Showing procedures have also been changed to encourage Realtors to remind clients to refrain as much as possible from touching surfaces during showing.
Also in modifying our showing instructions, we have asked that clients do not bring their children with them on showings at this time or if they must, to hold the child’s hand throughout the showing.
We have restricted our showing schedule to one group at a time, eliminating overlapping showings.
We strongly encourage homeowners to do their part and wipe down all doorknobs, light switches, and faucet handles after showings.
If possible, we are requesting the property to be vacated during all showings, for everyone's protection. We understand this may not always work with the elderly and infants in a house, but less interaction right now is the best interaction. Again, only if it can be accommodated. If that is not possible, alternatively keeping a distance of 6 feet at all times, or not sharing a floor of the property while we work is highly recommended.
We will not be hosting open houses or Realtor tours other than virtually and will do our best to limit showings to only those who are ready, willing and able to purchase at this time.
There are many great sources for information out there right now that most are watching closely. For Real Estate specific and other covid-19 questions Health Canada and BC Center for Disease Control have put together answers for commonly asked questions which can be found here:
On a brighter note, once the spread of the virus has stabilized, there should be a recovery to what we're seeing in terms of growth and activity both in the economy and in the real estate market. After that period of stabilization, we may even see greater demand as people feel a sense of security in real estate vs. the stock markets.
If you or someone you know is self-quarantined in their home and in need, please let us know. We are out and about and can deliver necessities if need be to your door.
We greatly value your business and please know that your safe working relationship with RE/MAX Michael Cowling And Associates is our priority.
If you are considering Buying or Selling, please visit www.michaelcowling.com preparing to hit the ground running when we get to the other side of this.
Thank you for your trust in us as we navigate these challenging circumstances together.
Are you looking to buy or sell property? If you’d like, we can have a real estate expert show you the most efficient process that saves you thousands of dollars, a lot of time, with little or no inconvenience to you. Contact us today!
Your Friends in Real Estate,
RE/MAX Michael Cowling and Associates Realty