You've probably noticed that open house signs are few and far between these days.
Actually, public walk-in open houses are currently not allowed under statewide law in California. If "open house" signs are posted, there must be an accompanying sign rider stating advance appointments only. Showings can only be set by advance appointment, with a signed form provided in advance declaring the party is free of COVID-19 virus, digitally signed by the buyer's agent and the buying parties and sent in advance of the appointment to the listing agent.
This is the State guidance, but local area restrictions may be more restrictive, so in areas prohibiting all open houses, no open house signs should be seen at all. When properties are shown by agents, masks and hand sanitizer must be used, the number of people in the house must be controlled practicing social distancing (usually one buying party at a time, and the buyer agent and listing agent). The entry rules also apply to home inspectors and other professionals who enter the property during escrow.
The Rules for Entry should be posted near the main entry of the home.
We miss the public walk-in open houses, but yet if you were the seller, especially if still living in the property, you would most certainly want all necessary precautions followed. It's really to the advantage of everyone.
Julia Huntsman, REALTOR, Broker |
www.juliahuntsman.com |
562-896-2609 |
California Lic. #01188996
