We understand you may have concerns and questions about conducting business following the rapid developments of the COVID-19 pandemic. Like you, we have been following the situation closely.

As a community, it is imperative we take measures to protect our families, clients and the most vulnerable at this time. It is critical we are diligent and follow recommendations put forward by Public Health Agencies and our government.

I wanted to reach out to my fellow REALTORS® today to provide information and guidance to help minimize the risk of exposure to COVID-19. Our government has a declared a state of emergency in Ontario, we need to follow recommendations from our Public Health Agencies to practice social distancing and avoid gatherings of over 50 people.

Like the Canadian Real Estate Association, we suggest speaking openly and honestly to sellers about the pros and cons of holding an open house. If you feel you must host an open house, please consider requesting visitors disinfect their hands before entering the home. You may also want to consider the following:

• restrict open house attendance to one group at a time;
• ask visitor to limit physically touching items in the house;
• refrain from greeting others with handshakes or hugs;
• encourage clients to thoroughly disinfect their home after open houses or viewings;
• request clients to notify you if they become ill within two weeks of an open house or showing;
• avoid sharing items such as phones, tablets or laptops.

Please visit the Health Canada website for more information.

MLS® Question for Showings vs Suspending Listings

DRAR’s MLS® Rules are in place to ensure compliance and the orderly operation of the MLS® System; however, we recognize that we are in unprecedented times, and the situation is changing rapidly with each passing day. During these extraordinarycircumstances, any complaints received by DRAR regarding compliance with the MLS® Rules will be assessed in light of directives provided by government and public health authorities.

Non-essential meetings/events postponed

The well-being of DRAR’s Members and staff are our utmost priority. DRAR has extensive procedures in place and is implementing remote work protocols for staff. Staff are available via email communication and are here to assist our Members. Please note, at this time all non-essential meetings and events including professional development sessions, and Arbitration and Professional Standards hearings are postponed until further notice. This includes DRAR’s Annual General Membership Meeting & Economic Summit.

DRAR’s Board of Directors will be discussing further action at their meeting next week.