Part 2 - CA Association of Realtors Guidance During Shelter in Place

Governor Newsom issued Executive Order N-33-20 on March 20, 2020, which supersedes all local orders and requires all individuals to stay at home.  Last night the California Association of Realtors posted an update on their website.  CAR has taken the position that the real estate industry is not exempt from this prohibition and that all face-to-face contact should cease, including listing appointments, showings, open houses and property inspections.  It also addresses that our clients and consumers are subject to the same order. Specifically:

“Governor Newsom and the State Public Health Officer issued Executive Order N-33-20 requiring all Californians to stay home except as needed to maintain continuity of operations in 16 infrastructure sectors. This supersedes all existing local city and county orders that are less restrictive. The real estate industry is not exempt from this prohibition except as needed to maintain “continuity of operation … of … construction, including housing construction.” Therefore, REALTORS® should cease doing all face-to-face marketing or sales activities, including showings, listing appointments, open houses and property inspections. Clients and other consumers are also subject to these orders and should not be visiting properties or conducting other business in person. Property management and repair work, which generally involves maintaining sanitary and safety conditions is permissible. Additionally, many other aspects of the real estate industry can continue to occur without in-person contact, including documentation and signing, and in many circumstances, closings. Other activities may also be managed remotely, though there may be some difficulties.”