We have made some changes to the way we do business, in light of the current Covid-19 pandemic.
During this time, our number one priority is to ensure the health and safety of our clients and community members. Currently, the most vulnerable populations are those aged 65 and over, those with compromised immune systems and those with underlying medical conditions. Many of our clients fall into one or more of these categories.
While our business typically involves a good deal of face-to-face contact, we are now taking measures to limit non-essential contact, including:
Cancelling in-person open houses until further notice;
Working remotely from our home office;
Increasing online promotion of listings;
Screening buyers and sellers regarding recent travel or illness;
Giving sellers the option to suspend showings; and,
Encouraging virtual showings using video-conferencing platforms such as FaceTime or Zoom.
We continue to be available for in-person showings, but are no longer touring clients in our cars and are arriving at listings with hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes in hand.
For our sellers, we suggest disinfecting door handles, light switches and surfaces before and after showings and are asking that buyers and agents avoid touching anything in homes.
Additionally, Sotheby's International Realty Canada has moved to remote business operations across Canada. This means that we continue to be supported by our administrative staff, marketing team, managing broker and company executives. Don Kottick, our President and CEO has posted an open letter to our clients on the Sotheby's blog which is available via this link.
We will continue to adjust our business practices as the situation progresses and we invite you to tune in to our monthly newsletter for updates regarding the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on our local real estate market and beyond.
Wishing you good health,
Glynis & Kirsten