COVID-19 Edina Realty Home Services update

At Edina Realty Home Services, we understand there is a vital need for many to purchase and sell homes or refinance amidst the pandemic. Real estate services are considered an essential business in both Minnesota and Wisconsin during this time, but please be assured that we are making every attempt to do things virtually whenever possible. The health and safety of our communities and clients are a top priority, and during these unprecedented times, we're doing our part to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Edina Realty is open for business

We remain open for business, but our offices are open to clients by appointment only.Edina Realty agents and employees continue working, either in office or remotely, offering virtual showings and appointments, and we’re ready to help with all your real estate needs while practicing health and safety protocols.

We are fully equipped to offer support and service to you. Simply give your agent a call, send an email or reach out via direct message for help with your home buying, selling, mortgage, title, insurance and warranty needs.

Changes you may see when working with an agent

Edina Realty agents maintain a strong foundation in ethics. Our core values of honesty, integrity, commitment, innovation and community are constant in all we do. We believe in treating all clients and potential clients equally and fairly.

In order to protect their clients and themselves, agent practices may adjust slightly during this time. Here are a few adjustments that you may experience:

• Your agent may ask you questions about recent travel or health issues, to help identify if you are at risk for COVID-19. Agents will be asking all their clients the same questions based on current, factual information from public health authorities and is in no way intended to make you feel uncomfortable or singled out.
• Your agent may request that you meet them at a property instead of offering to drive you or they may decline to drive you if you show signs of illness or have other risk factors.
• You may notice your agents cleaning and disinfecting surfaces frequently. Some of these popular touchpoints will include door handles, doorknobs, light switches, seat belt latches, dashboards, countertops, lockboxes and similar areas.

What buyers and sellers should know about open houses and showings

Virtual open houses are encouraged, even as in-person open houses resume (after a temporary suspension) with a number of safety precautions in place. We have many options available to help you successfully market your home or navigate your home search.

Your agent will speak openly and honestly about the pros and cons of private in-home showings and in-person open houses. By partnering with an Edina Realty agent, you have access to a variety of alternative options including Edina Realty’s strong network, expert marketing solutions, high quality listing photographs and details, video tours and other methods to virtually explore a property.

If you plan to allow or attend private showings and open houses, the following precautions may be required:

• All visitors may be asked to disinfect their hands upon entering the home.
• The hosting agent may limit the amount of people in the home.
• Alcohol-based hand sanitizer may be offered at the entryway.
• Sellers may be asked to leave lights on and interior doors and cabinets open.
• Sellers may ask visitors to wear face masks.
• Visitors will be asked not to touch any surfaces.
• Visitors will be asked to maintain at least six feet of social distancing from other guests.

Sellers will be asked to clean and disinfect their home after each showing or open house, especially commonly touched areas like doorknobs and faucet handles.

We continue to perform closings in our closing centers. However, Edina Realty Title has implemented the following precautions.

Social distancing guidelines for closings

• Closings are conducted only at our closing centers or other title closing centers.
• If a closing takes place indoors, we will separate buyers and sellers into different rooms.
• Clear protective sanitary screens will separate closers and clients.
• In some cases, closings may be conducted from your car in an Edina Realty Title closing center parking lot.

Indoor safety considerations

• All non-essential materials and refreshments have been removed from the closing rooms.
• Surfaces are being regularly cleaned and sanitized.
• Consumers and staff will wear masks according to state regulations.

Do we have to close in person? Who can attend a closing?

• Sellers are being encouraged to pre-sign whenever possible.
• Buyers must close in-person due to notarized signature requirements.
• Closing attendees are limited to clients and closers only (no agents or mortgage consultants).

Last, Edina Realty has assembled a COVID-19 task force. Our task force meets regularly to integrate the latest recommendations from government and industry officials, allowing us to keep things running smoothly for your real estate needs.

A heartfelt thank you

We want to extend a very special thank you to the exceptional people in our communities. Our deepest gratitude to all the educators, first responders, medical professionals, law enforcers, government officials, grocery store workers, truck drivers and others supporting our communities. You are incredible and we appreciate you.