In many fields, including everything from education to entertainment to New York real estate, the introduction of COVID-19 has changed the way things are done. The use of social distance to delay the spread of the virus has affected real estate in particular, prompting a move away from in-person showings and open homes to virtual tours. Even, many consumers prefer to do it the conventional way, and if you know what you are doing, it can be done reasonably safely. So here's how to plan in the COVID age for an open house New York

Know the Local Rules and Restrictions

In planning for an open house in New York, the first thing sellers can do is to gain an understanding of the local rules and restrictions governing near personal interactions and group activities. These vary from state to state and from city to city, so a little searching may take place.

In certain places, shelter-on-site orders might also be in site, which effectively shut down all non-essential businesses and gatherings. Some cities and states have policies which are more transparent and flexible. Your local New York rules will then largely decide how you plan for an open house.

Your real estate agent should be able to advise you to ensure compliance with local laws in your open house preparations. Contact a local agent to find out more.

Take General Precautions

At the time of COVID, there are many steps you should take to ensure a secure and healthy open house New York. If open houses in your area are permitted in person, be sure to follow these general precautions.

Some of the things you can and should do include:

  • On a case-by - case basis, consider open houses. This mainly involves destroying more tire kickers by ensuring that prospective buyers have been pre-approved.
  • Also, make sure buyers have taken the virtual tour and are ready for an open house in fact.
  • Have assembled and readily usable "showing kits" to viewers. Booties, gloves, and hand sanitizer should be included in these kits.
  • Disinfect all regularly touched areas and objects, such as countertops, doorknobs, and cabinet pulls, prior to the open house.
  • Afterwards, sweep and disinfect thoroughly again.

Implement Specific Precautions and Safety Measures

In addition to the general precautions set out above, there are some specific safety measures that you can take, especially with the help of your agent. There are:

  • As we mentioned, to make sure they are serious buyers, vet potential buyers. There's no need to unnecessarily endanger COVID exposure.
  • In advance, make sure that none of the people involved, including prospective clients, your lawyer, and yourself, are ill.
  • Work with your New York representative to ensure that your home is toured by only one buyer or buyer party at a time.
  • Continue to observe the CDC’s recommended six-foot rule during the open house.
  • Request that buyers wash or sanitize their hands and remove their shoes on arrival.

Points to Remember

Let's summarize some relevant points to bear in mind when planning for an open house in the COVID era New York.

  • Keep abreast of the ever-changing laws of lockout and social distancing.
  • Know the instructions of the CDC, such as constantly washing hands and not touching your face.
  • Find other means of showing your house, probably depending on virtual tours, if you or any buyer is at a high risk of infection.
  • An open house should not be attended by someone who is ill or shows any COVID symptoms.

Your Local Agent Can Help

In the days of COVID, real estate agents had to adapt, and in these unprecedented days, a successful agent would know the best ways to hold an open house. So be sure to rely on the expertise of your local agent to have an open house that is secure and still fruitful New York. Contact us today to find out more.

Author's Bio: 

William Pek
I'm here to assist reader's about how to buy or sell home. I'm Professional author about home buying or selling. I have 25 year's experience in this field.