REALTORS® and COVID-19: Three Tips for Working During the Hot Market

In February’s episode of Open House by BCREA, our monthly podcast for REALTORS^®, host Tony Joe and his guests – former Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver President and current Vancouver-area Realtor Phil Moore, and lawyer Brian Taylor – explore some of the challenges and opportunities of working in a historically busy market during COVID-19.

Their insightful and in-depth conversation covers a wide range of topics from putting health and safety first, to presenting offers, and Realtor professionalism.

Here are three takeaways from the conversation:

1. Communication is key

COVID-19 has posed many challenges and evolved practice when it comes to showing, and helping to ensure the safety of clients and the public. With changes to the way showings happen, it is in everyone’s best interest to communicate clearly with your clients and other agents on safety protocols to ensure there is a clear understanding of what to expect during viewings.

2. Ensure best practices are followed

Realtors rely on a number of best practices in their day-to-day work. In a hot market, there can sometimes be pressure to move quickly and sometimes adapt tried and tested practices in an effort to serve your client. However, it is important to remember that best practices are best practices for a reason. So, when it comes to multiple offer situations, advising clients, representing clients' interests, etc. relying on your expertise and training is key.

February’s Legally Speaking article by Brian Taylor looks at one specific scenario from 2016, which resulted in discipline from Council, that is a good example of the need for continued diligence. Read it here.

3. Make your COVID-19 protocol an opportunity

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, the public wants to know that they will be safe when dealing with the real estate profession. Realtors have made health and safety a priority, and many of you have gone above and beyond. This can be beneficial to you and your business, and the Realtor profession as a whole. Having clear and concise COVID-19 protocols will help enhance your clients' experience in working with you.

To hear more from Tony, Phil, and Brian listen to the full episode below or click here.