Does Tier 4 mean the housing market is closed? and does Tier 4 mean I can't view houses?

Above are two questions I have been asked over the festive period so I wanted to write this short blog to help with some answers.  Yes you can book viewings to see properties and yes the housing marketing is open for people to move property.  Here are some of the rules or regulations we work towards for appointments to make sure everyone stays safe.

TWO HOUSEHOLDS ONLY

You (the viewer) are a household.  Me (the agent) is also a household.  This means the homeowner has to leave the property or all viewings.  It also means no family and friends can attended the viewing with you; only people you live with.  Please also respect that homeowners will have to make arrangements to leave their own home. They also go to the effort to get the property cleaned and tidy prior to each property viewing so if you can't make the appointment please give as much notice as possible.

MASKS

Face masks as with most public places need to be worn throughout the viewing. This includes the agent to (me). It has become the new 'normal' and we hope everyone will respect this regulation for property visits.  If you are exempt from face masks please let us know when booking the viewing so we are aware prior to meeting you.

SHOES

Both the estate agent and the viewer will need to remove shoes.  If you are not wearing socks then we will provide shoe covers for you.  Ideally we try and leave shoes outside of the property due to the wet weather (as long as they are covered).

OTHER PPE

Avocado Partners all wear disposable gloves on viewings and therefor open all doors.  If anyone would like to see in cupboards or would like something moved then just ask and we can do it for you safely.

SOCIAL DISTANCE

A one metre distance throughout the property should be kept on the appointment where possible.  This does mean being more aware of each others personal space.  Example: allowing the agent to open the door to a room and then move back out, prior to you following them in.

SYMPTOMS OF COVID-19

If you or anyone in your family that will be coming with you on a property viewing have any symptoms at all please respect the safety of the homeowner and the agent and do not attend.  We are happy to conduct the viewing via our virtual service using FaceTime, Zoom etc... For more information regarding symptoms you can have a look here.

With so many people looking to move home we are doing our best to keep everyone safe and keep everyones goals on track.  The way of life for people has changed and demand for houses with office space, home gyms or larger gardens is higher than ever.  If you have any plans to move or let a property then we would love to use our experience and local knowledge to help you.  You can book a valuation via this link if needed.

Thanks for reading this blog and should you have any questions feel free to call us directly on 01344 249500.