Updated 5/17/21.

 

Click here to see the current COVID buyer and seller guide.

 

We have developed creative and new ways of marketing property, as well as serving our buyers, while adhering to the best practices mandated by CalOSHA and the CDC.

 

It is essential that all sellers and buyers keep aware of and practice all current legal requirements and recommended safety and sanitary practices.

 

Sellers who have any misgivings about allowing people into their residences, such as prospective buyers, their agents, or any of the other professionals who are involved in the process of selling a home (e.g., appraisers, home inspectors, repair personnel) should consider postponing the sale of their property and/or delaying the close of escrow.

 

Sellers who are not healthy, have special medical needs (such as a depressed immune system, diabetes, or require a special breathing apparatus), are exhibiting any flu or COVID-19 symptoms or are otherwise not feeling well, should immediately protect themselves and others by delaying marketing their property and/or close of escrow.

 

A: In compliance with the county government-mandated SIP and the general concern for the health and safety of our community, real estate agents are prohibited from holding open houses and showings to prospective buyers and buyers agents at this time. However, virtual open houses are permitted and are a great way to build exposure for your listing. We have been creating more videos, photo tours, and other innovative ways to showcase your property and get attention to our listings during this time than ever before.

 

A: Yes. Real estate-related activities are considered an “essential” activity by 5 Bay Area counties. We have implemented new systems whereby agents register their buyers and collect signed health statements from their buyers (PEADs) in exchange for a personal code that allows them to access the lockbox. This way we can make sure that only buyers and agents who are taking proper precautions and following the rules are allowed access to your property.

 

A: Because open houses are still prohibited, all prospective buyers must be accompanied by their agent to see properties. Both occupied and unoccupied homes can be shown. Showings are limited to 2 family members and 1 other individual max, keeping in mind a 6-foot social distancing rule while inside the property at all times. And when a home is occupied, the occupant may not be present on the premises during the showing. Occupants as a general rule should leave 30 minutes before a showing and allow 30 minutes after the showing to return. Anyone accessing a property must sign a C.A.R. PEAD waiver stating that they are not experiencing symptoms or been exposed to anyone with COVID-19 within 14 days. Agents are providing cleaning products at the properties, are asked to open windows and doors as practical to provide maximum ventilation, and to wipe down frequently touched items such as doorknobs and light switches after each showing.

 

In some cases, sellers may require verification of funds exhibiting the buyer’s ability to purchase, as well as written receipt that virtual tours have been watched and property disclosure packet has been reviewed. Buyers should only view a property in person that they are seriously considering.Talk to your Red Oak agent about your best options to mitigate your health risk while purchasing a home in this current market.

 

A: Yes. Services that support real estate, which include stagers, appraisers, landscapers, painters, handymen or providers of beautification construction, are allowed. All workers are asked to sign the PEAD form and contractors and must operate under the best practices as prescribed by the CDC.

 

A: Yes. Staging is considered an essential business in Alameda and Contra Costa counties and in Berkeley, which has a separate health department.

 

Much of the initial home-buying search process can be done online to assess which properties are available and to narrow your search. Other aspects of the real estate transaction can also be accomplished online, including but not limited to: loan applications, document signatures and delivery of contracts, advisories, disclosures, inspection reports, and other transaction documents.

 

A: Yes. We would caution buyers that they should always view a property and conduct their full investigation prior to writing an offer. In some instances, it may not be possible to view the interior of a property. However, we are now allowed to show owner- and tenant-occupied properties with their permission. The sellers and occupants are asked to provide a PEAD form similar to what prospective buyers sign, affirming that they are not sick and have not been knowingly exposed to COVID-19.It is possible to write an offer with a physical inspection contingency, which would be subject to a suggested period of 5 days (or longer) to conduct inspections upon vacancy.

 

If you have more questions, feel free to reach out.