Dear Monica: A property came on the market last week that seemed perfect but because of COVID rules it sold before I was able to get in to see the property. Was this fair? Jim G.

 

Dear Jim: The 2021 real estate market has begun and it is very active. COVID rules require agents to space appointments at certain intervals so that two unrelated groups are not on the property at the same time. This is easier to do if the property is vacant but if it is occupied, showings can be more restrictive. Some sellers have children who are remote learning and can only be out of the house after classes are finished for the day, and many are uncomfortable having lots of buyers tour their homes.

 

Because of tight rules, some buyers are making non-contingent offers on a property without having seen it and some sellers opt to accept such offers. If the supply of properties improves, which it should, buyers will have access to more homes.