To help stop the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19), the Victorian Government has issued a number of important changes that impact the way we can help you during the foreseeable future.
With new restrictions now in place, our most important goal is keeping our community, clients and staff members safe. Therefore, we will be reducing all face-to-face interactions by following the below guidelines:
Virtual property appraisals
More and more people own smartphones which enable us to communicate seamlessly with each other through a range of online applications. Some of these applications are already built into our phones. Therefore, it is easy for us to meet with you over video call to discuss your property and how we can help you achieve your property goals.
Online auctions
While traditional on-site and in-room auctions are currently not permitted, we are able to auction your property online via live stream. This alleviates the common stress of rushing to prepare and clean your property on the morning of the auction and enables bidders a more comfortable environment to participate and bid remotely. Prospective buyers are able to watch, register, bid, buy and exchange during the live auction.
Private treaty / private sale negotiating
Our agents are expert negotiators and there are no changes that affect the way we can sell your property by private treaty. In fact, sometimes this can be the best approach depending on your circumstance and property. Your Century 21 agent will guide you on what strategy would be best to achieve the result you are after.
Settlement of current contracts
The restrictions permit agents to conduct work required to complete settlements in restricted areas, which includes final inspections with purchasers. Agents must carry a permit to do so.
Inspections
Open homes may no longer take place for the interim period. We are awaiting confirmation from the Government regarding private inspection guidelines, however it is unlikely that this will be allowed.
End of tenancy services
Agents may conduct activities required to finalise a tenancy, such as conduct a final inspection in order to release a bond. Agents must carry a permit to do so.
Urgent maintenance
Agents may work outside their home in order to arrange urgent maintenance where it's required but all other methods for arranging repairs should be exhausted first, such as tenant providing access. Agents must carry a permit to do so.
Working within offices
Currently no staff members are allowed to be working from a real estate office within metropolitan Melbourne. In extreme cases, access may be possible in order to obtain keys needed for the purposes of giving to a buyer for settlement, new tenant or for urgent maintenance. Agents must carry a permit to do so.
Documents can be signed online
We have a range of online services available to ensure legal documents can be easily signed, dated and returned without having to worry about printing, scanning and posting. These digital documents make it easy and simple to fill out and sign agreements and forms online, instantly returning to the sender once complete.
Although we can't see you in person at this time, we are only a phone call away. We are still contactable by phone and e-mail and would be delighted to speak with you to answer any questions. Please don't hesitate to reach out to our team at any time if we may be of assistance.
Stay safe Victoria!