The shock announcement of a brand new tier 4 has scuppered many plans and will come as a real disappointment to everyone who had planned to try to enjoy a small reminder of normality even for a day or two with a select few.
Whilst the news is of course sad on many personal levels, it’s has been decided that estate agents can continue to run as normal at this time.
We still have many viewings booked this week, which are still able to go ahead but of course they must be carried out safely and only with a vendors full support.
Our office doors will remain locked and we will not be arranging meetings within the office until the new year, this coupled with staff working from home over the festive periods are the only significant changes to how Orchards will be operating.
So How Are Orchards continuing during this period?
Every appointment will receive a link by text or by email to our COVID secure guidance but in summary;
Masks are required to be worn by all parties.
There can be no more than two households present at one time and this number includes the accompanying agent. So for example on a viewing there should only be 1) the Viewing Household and 2) The Agent.
Viewers will be asked to use antibacterial hand gel before entering a property.
Viewers are asked not to touch any door handles or lights, and vendors are asked to ensure that doors are left open and lights are left on.
More guidance is available here; https://www.orchards.co.uk/covid19
Is it worth keeping my house on the market?
The short answer is yes. Every year the Christmas and new year period sees traffic to agents website and portals increase by around 300%. With this year expected to be even higher, due to the extended time spent at home.
Although it will be far from normal we hope you manage to have the best Christmas possible.
The Team @ Orchards