On June 3, 2020, Idaho REALTORS® (IR) and the Idaho Real Estate Commission (IREC) emailed members joint guidelines clarifying agents’ duties regarding showings as we’ve heard some people have incorrectly assumed they must stay outside of homes due to COVID-19. Here is that guidance:
It recently came to our attention that some potential buyers were allowed in a home while their agent stayed outside. The agent stated they were staying outside for physical distancing purposes. We see this situation as an opportunity to clarify and educate all real estate professionals across the state. To that end, we expect all Idaho licensees to follow local, state, federal, and CDC guidelines, while also being mindful of their ongoing duties under real estate license law, the REALTOR® Code of Ethics, their client representation agreements, their keyholder agreements, and any instructions in MLS remarks. Failure to accompany clients into a home is a violation of agency duties and license law and can result in a complaint, an allegation of unethical behavior under the NAR Code of Ethics, and/or legal liability for yourself or clients.
As real estate professionals, we know you constantly strive to provide your clients with the most ethical and zealous service possible. COVID-19 does not change this nor excuse or negate your responsibility to accompany clients into a seller’s home or property.
Understanding there may be concerns about COVID-19 and interacting with clients, here are some helpful tips:
- Frequently wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer;
- Wear a mask and encourage clients to do the same;
- If a buyer is ill, showing symptoms, or suspects they have been exposed to the COVID-19, flu, etc., they should not be entering any property, relying instead on virtual tours or showings while they self-isolate per local, state, federal, and CDC guidelines; and
- If an agent is ill, etc., we recommend they coordinate with another agent to handle any in-person showings or activities on their behalf while they self-isolate.
If you have questions please feel free to reach out to us: Idaho Real Estate Commission at (208) 334-3285 or Idaho REALTORS® at (208) 342-3585
Please remember, if you are uncomfortable holding an open house, or doing any in-person activities, know that you are never required to put yourself at risk in servicing a client. BRR does encourage members to continue utilizing virtual and livestream open houses, and virtual showings and tours, and have provided tips and best practices for these below. Learn more on our “Open House Alternatives During Coronavirus (COVID-19)” blog post.
