In responding to the dual health and economic crisis that COVID-19 has become, the Queensland Government is attempting to strike a balance between allowing businesses to operate and preventing the spread of COVID-19.
With only “Essential Workers” allowed to venture out during a lockdown, the question is “Where do property managers factor in the equation?”
It may have taken a little longer than the Federal Government anticipated, however public opinion has seemingly swayed in favour of stricter restrictions to reduce the transmission of COVID-19. Far from the gruelling lockdowns seen across the drink in New Zealand as well as many other parts of the world, Australia has allowed those businesses to operate that constitute ‘essential services.’ So, is real estate considered an essential service?
Sure, sales agents and property managers are no front line police officers, fire fighters, paramedics or surgeons, but what they do is essential to keeping real estate transacting. And real estate carries a lot on her shoulders – supporting the economy and employment while always the fundamental litmus test for consumer confidence.
Most importantly real estate agents help people to find accommodation. Many people need to find rental properties very quickly. This is especially important when lockdown restrictions are in place.
“Real estate professionals manage close to 600,000 Queensland households through property management services alone,” says Antonia Mercorella, CEO of The Real Estate Institute of Queensland. “This is why It’s critical that the role of real estate professionals are endorsed an essential service so we are able to achieve what the Palaszczuk Government’s COVID-19 Emergency Response Bill 2020 – for property owners and tenants ‘to negotiate in good faith and come up with arrangements that enable them to get through this crisis.’ This is where the role of real estate professionals are needed more than ever as most tenants don’t negotiate directly with property owners.”
What we do here at Hicks Real Estate
We have moved as much as possible to a Secure Remote Working environment. That means that our team’s ability to seamlessly and efficiently operate as if you were in the office is not compromised.
When we are in the office the mandatory maximum staff numbers and physical distancing is observed.
We now have most documents signed online (including contracts)
Gone are the days of handwritten contracts and forms. It’s important that contracts and forms are delivered swiftly and professionally. We now create forms and contracts centrally and it sending it for signing via email.
Open Homes
Of course all of our team wear masks when required in public, and we have plenty of hand sanitiser available, along with disposable wipes for those surfaces that may be touched.
We know that it is important for everyone to follow the rules and to stay safe.
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Hicks Real Estate Team
Hicks Real Estate is a Brisbane based, full-service real estate agency supporting buyers and sell as well as renters and property investors. With almost 20 years experience in the local market, we are the real estate experts you can rely upon.
