Starting Wednesday, January 5th, 2022, Ontario will enter a modified Step Two of its Roadmap to Reopening and will remain under these rules until at least January 26th, 2022 (21 days).

What Does This Mean For Real Estate

Real Estate business can continue, but with limitations.

1. Open Houses

Open houses are not permitted at this time.

In-person real estate showings may continue (by appointment only) and must follow all public health rules and guidelines.

2. Impact on Real Estate Brokerages

As essential services, a real estate brokerage can continue to operate with certain limitations:

Remote work – The Broker of Record for each brokerage must ensure that any person who performs work for the business conducts their work remotely unless the nature of the work requires them to be on-site.

Capacity limits – Capacity inside a real estate business is limited to the lesser of 50% capacity or the number of people that can maintain physical distancing of 2 metres.

Face covering/masks – Must be worn if within 2 metres of another person indoor and not separated by a barrier.

Screening – Real estate brokerages must complete active screening of workers who enter their offices.

Cleaning/disinfecting – Equipment, washrooms and other common areas must be cleaned regularly and disinfected.


3. Short-Term Rentals

Short-term rentals are open only if provided to individuals who are in need of housing (does not apply to hotels, motels, lodges, resorts, student residences and other shared rental accommodation, but does apply with respect to cabins and cottages).

Indoor pools, communal steam rooms, saunas or indoor whirlpools, indoor fitness centres, or other indoor recreational facilities at short-term rentals must be closed.

If you are in need of real estate services and are unsure if you are impacted by these updates, feel free to reach out. Our team is available and looking forward to discussing your unique situation with you, at your convenience.