Real estate services have been declared an essential service by the Alberta Government.

The recently released list of businesses and services that qualify as essential services can be found here. Businesses and services on the list can continue to provide services at locations accessible to the public.

It’s important to note that essential services must have proper risk mitigation measures in place. As such, real estate business can continue during this time, however, it’s important to note that it’s not business as usual.

The inclusion of real estate as an essential service was done primarily to ensure homeowners with pending closings (those who have already bought and need to sell or those who have sold and need to buy, etc.) are able to transact. It also recognizes the importance of the real estate industry to the health of the economy.

REALTORS^® must ensure to take all necessary precautions and measures to protect the safety of their clients and themselves. It’s important for REALTORS^® to observe best practices, especially if it becomes necessary to conduct face-to-face meetings or sales activities, such as showings, listing appointments and property inspections.

Please keep in mind that the COVID-19 State of Emergency and response from all levels of government is changing rapidly. All members are urged to monitor new developments as guidance and recommendations evolve.

CREB^® has compiled a list of information and FAQ’s on our COVID-19 CREB^®Link page for your reference here. Additionally, CREB^® reminds all members to consult with their brokerage as they navigate the evolving situation.

Please note, the Alberta Real Estate Association (AREA) is prohibiting its members from hosting open houses to protect public safety in response to COVID-19. For more information, read AREA's announcement here.