Following yesterday's announcement by the Victorian State Government, residents of Melbourne's metropolitan area will be under the strict lockdown rules (with some slight variations). From now until mid-August, Melburnians must remain in their principal place of residence and will only be allowed to leave their homes for four reasons:

• shopping for food and essential items;
• medical care and caregiving;
• work and study if it cannot be done from home;
• exercise.

Cafes, restaurants and pubs have reverted to takeaway only, and social distancing guidelines of one person per 4 sqm indoors remains in place. Visitors are no longer allowed at home. 

How will the real estate industry be affected?

As was the case at the onset of the pandemic,  the restrictions will have an impact on the real estate industry. From now until the end of Stage 3 lockdown,

• homes may be viewed by virtual inspection or private appointment only. One person, plus the agent, may view a home at any one time. Appointments must be made prior to inspection
• auctions will be conducted remotely.
• social distancing and hygiene measures will be strictly adhered to. All staff are required to follow the procedures that have been recommended including no high-level human contact, social distancing and sanitary precautions.

Today’s digital era has us well placed to be flexible in our working environment and gives us the ability to relate with clients in many different ways. Our fundamental priority is to have a safe and successful working environment for our people and our clients.  

For sales and rental applications, we have the technology available to offer our clients the following alternatives to allow you to achieve your real estate outcomes:

• Virtual guided tours through properties
• Electronic forms for rental applications – 1Form
• Electronic contracts for signing
• FaceTime/Zoom meetings
• Phone link ups
• Digital videos of our homes
• Email connections for documents
• Virtual Floor plans
• Drone photography
• Web links for photos and property information
• Digital brochures
• Online rental payments
• Direct debit deposit payments

Though COVID-19 has brought much uncertainty to many aspects of how we live we remain positive the property market will continue to perform. We want to assure you that Buxton are open for business as usual.