An association has applauded New South Wale’s decision to resume traditional property inspections and on-site auctions at the start of next weekend following the six-week “limited shutdown” which was implemented in response to COVID-19.
“Choosing a home is one of the biggest decisions anybody makes, and easing the restrictions to ensure people can more easily inspect, buy or rent a property is an important step for NSW,” said NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet.
“The real estate industry has been adaptable in transitioning to online auctions, property inspections by appointment or online and now, as we make the move back to a more normal mode of operation, we must ensure safety measures such as social distancing remain a key part of the process.”
Graham Wolfe, managing director of the Housing Industry Association (HIA), has called the move “sensible and important”, particularly as it pertains to first home buyers and the construction industry.
“Visiting display homes is a first and exciting step for aspirational new home buyers and their families,” Wolfe said.
“Access to display homes is equally important in supporting new home builders and the housing industry more broadly over the coming weeks and months.
“While adopting measures similar to the access restrictions placed on open house inspections, new home builders have experienced a significant downturn in traffic through display homes since the crisis started.”
The New South Wales government has communicated that real estate agents should limit the number of people viewing a property and attending an auction, follow stringent cleaning and safety guidelines, and do their best to ensure clients do not touch surfaces and always have hand sanitiser available.
The 1.5m physical distancing benchmark will be preserved as best possible and detailed contact records will be kept for people attending open homes and auctions to minimise potential risks.
