Yes, and yes. Although the protocol may have changed, the adjustments most realtors are making have the safety measures people need, and homes are still selling. It’s not as leisurely as it was before, where we took for granted looking at 5 homes in one hour. The pre-qualifying online has gotten much better and the physical showings that are taking place are after the buyers are quite sure the property is for them. Less showings, but perhaps a more qualified buyer which is better for everyone, to be honest. The technology we are using now as a team which our clients can take advantage of is nothing short of amazing. Outside of reaching out and physically touching something, I actually think it makes for a more efficient process aside from my love of our face to face business.

Offers, home inspections, and even closing procedures with lawyers have all transitioned to a contact free process. However once again, aside from the relationship building that comes from meeting people in person, this makes for a more streamlined process. 

At the start of the pandemic leading into March break, it was still very much all systems go, with many homes continuing to sell for over asking price. Two weeks into social distancing and the market was still very much alive with normal levels of not only new listings, but sales too. Our team was seeing 5 offers on homes and even though the number of showings seemed to be down, the buyers who were still looking had home goals that needed to be achieved. We took our job very seriously and felt we continued to lead and adapt to a new level of precaution for our clients to make sure not only everyone was safe, but that we could provide the high level of service people counted on and we were used to. The extra effort was appreciated and we always felt better doing it. 

The last 3 weeks has been a different story with precautions getting stronger by the day and showings becoming more and more limited. We also saw new listings dramatically taper off and then sales followed.

But that shouldn’t be looked at as a misleading stat.

After all, if there are no houses for sale, people can’t buy them. New inventory for April 2020 is down 33% from last year, and sales are down 67% comparing this April to April 2019 (keep in mind, at the time of writing, the month isn’t over, it’s currently April 17th). Once again, you need house listings to have house sales.