KNOWLEDGE CAFÉ

The Government of Ontario ordered all non-essential businesses to close by 11:59 PM on Tuesday, March 24, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The government published exceptions to this order in their list of essential workplaces. Notably, the government has deemed real estate an essential service. Although real estate trades may continue, it doesn’t mean a return to “business as usual.”

Embracing digital technology is essential in order to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission. As recommended by the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO), I will be employing measures such as the following technological solutions to support my clients with their real estate transactions:

• Using virtual tours, 360 walk-throughs, mobile measurement applications and digital floorplans instead of in-person viewings

• Using electronic documents and signatures, instead of paper documents

• Using electronic funds transfers instead of certified cheques

• Communicating via written communications, smartphone technology applications, and video conferencing, instead of face-to-face.

By embracing innovation and technology, I can eliminate the need for in-person interactions and continue to provide a high level of service for my clients.

In keeping with the declaration of the State of Emergency for Ontario, I am suspending my in-person services until further notice.

In times of crisis, we all revert to our comfort zones, and for me, that means helping. If you need advice, or have real estate inquiries, I will try to assist you as best as possible through online means.

I know many of you are worried about what this means to the value of your home and other investment properties.

As the COVID situation and the government response to it seemingly changes every hour, it’s impossible to predict what’s going to happen.

But we do know that:

• Interest rates have fallen (it may be a good time to look into refinancing)
• Homes are NOT currently being sold below market value; while today’s Buyers are factoring the COVID uncertainties into their offers, homes are still being sold for what they would have a few months ago.
• The Canadian government and our banks will be offering mortgage deferral options and other financial packages, to assist all Canadians.
• If property prices dip temporarily, remember: that only matters if you decide to sell your home.

Our homes are a feature in our lives even more these days as we shelter in place, self-isolate or quarantine.

Stay home. Stay safe. Be kind to your neighbours and each other.