A survey conducted by the Georgia Association of Realtors revealed that the coronavirus pandemic is not only impacting their business but is also compromising their health.
The response rate was an all-time high of 6,261 — that’s 15% of the association’s membership — for the survey conducted from March 24th to 27th, according to GAR senior communications director Brandie Miner.
Twenty-six respondents — or one half of 1% — said they had tested positive for COVID-19 or are experiencing symptoms, and 91% said their business had experienced a significant or moderate impact as a result of the pandemic.
Of those members, 77% reported seeing buyers delay their home search; 57% had clients postpone new listings; 21% had clients cancel an open house; 15% had clients who removed their house from the market; and 12% had difficulties either requesting or being granted extensions on appraisals and financing contingencies.
Nearly two-thirds of respondents (64%) had adjusted their way of doing business, such as conducting business over the phone or internet and adhering to CDC safety guidelines. Almost one in four (23%) had closed up shop completely as a result of the outbreak, and 13% reported conducting business as usual.
Most Realtors (81%) said they did not know anyone personally who tested positive for COVID-19 or experienced symptoms.