21 March 2020

Agency Operations In the Time of COVID-19

Agency Operations In The Time Of COVID-19

In these extraordinary times, Cote Nord Property Port Douglas is continuing to operate with listing and selling Port Douglas area property.  The following are some of our operating practices and protocols during this period, in line with those suggested by the industry body, the REIQ, and may change at any time in line with updated government health authority requirements.

We will be conducting only private or limited ‘by inspection’ appointments.

As required, we can alternatively use live stream technology or video presentations.

Prior to an inspection being put in place, we will be contacting the seller to ensure no one in the property is currently ill, is in self-isolation or has just returned from overseas, before proceeding.  If they have answered yes to any of these questions, it is recommended that the inspection be postponed at least 14 days (in accordance with current Queensland Health recommendations).

The potential buyer will be asked to verify they are not currently ill, are in self-isolation or have just returned from overseas, and and we will advise them to not attend if they have answered yes to any of these questions.   Entry will not be permitted to people displaying symptoms and/or those who meet other ‘at risk’ criteria as may be stipulated by health authorities.

Hand sanitiser will be provided and all on-site potential buyers will be requested to use it and requested to refrain from touching objects and fixtures within the home, especially high-touch surfaces such as door handles, tap handles and window fittings.

The sales agent may ask an attendee to leave an inspection if the sales agent becomes concerned the person poses a risk to others,  for example if the person is demonstratively feverish or coughing, or is behaving inappropriately/failing to adhere to instructions provided.

Potential buyers will be informed that it is essential for the sales agent to ensure there is an accurate record of the names and contact details of all attendees in case of later medical testing being required by health authorities.    The agent will decline to shake hands or have any other physical contact, and will be maintaining social distancing of at least 1.5 metres where practical.

Both owners and prospective buyers can be assured that we are simply following best practice precautionary measures which are not in response to any confirmed coronavirus cases within the agency or immediate area.

The beauty of Port Douglas and surrounds remains the same, and as one of my clients commented to me, “Port will survive - how could it not - it’s the most beautiful place in Australia!”