Real Estate Resumes In PA, With These New Rules In Place

PENNSYLVANIA — A bill that came across Gov. Tom Wolf's desk Tuesday would have permitted real estate sales to resume. Wolf, however, vetoed the bill along with two others.

But while House Bill 2412 — introduced by Bucks County Rep. Todd Polinchock — was vetoed, the state is permitting limited real estate activities and issued guidance on how to do so.

Wolf said the real estate industry can now conduct limited business-related activities, and provided this guidance for the industry to operate in red phase and yellow phase counties.

"All businesses in the real estate industry... are permitted to conduct in-person operations for properties located in counties which have designated as being in the Red and Yellow phases, so long as they strictly adhere to the requirements of this guidance," according to the state.

Some guidelines issued by the state include using unoccupied model homes for in-person showings; maintaining records of all appointments such as showings, inspections, and office visits; and limiting in-person activities to only the real estate professional and two people inside a property.

Agents should stagger property showings by 30 minutes or more and avoid touching items such as lights, interior doors, drapes and blinds.

Buyers and agents should minimize the time spent in the property by having discussions, including contract negotiations, away from the property via remote means such as video conference or telephone.

You can read the full guidelines here.

The guidance also has some prohibitions for the real estate industry.

Real estate businesses and workers are prohibited from offering food during in-person activities. Additionally, conducting in-person group showings for either potential buyers or real estate professionals, including open houses, broker opens or office tours is prohibited.

Real estate professionals with questions about the guidelines should email ra-realestate@pa.gov for more information.