The real estate market in Toronto may have slowed down in the last few days due to COVID-19, but that doesn’t mean its come to a complete halt. These Toronto Experts provide insight into how they’re navigating today’s market.
Gillian Oxley & Joseph Robert, Sales Representative and Broker
How do you prepare for an open house during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Given the change in climate as we all adjust to the new situation and need to distance from one another, we are working from a virtual platform first – relying on video conferencing and virtual property tours – ironically we have sold close to a dozen homes in the past via FaceTime and a property walk-through so we know this can be effective. New listings are coming out daily, and with current mortgage rate incentives, buyers are considering more options.
What is your take on the current state of the real estate market in Toronto?
Traditionally, the Spring market is the busiest time of the year. Given the current health crisis with COVID-19 the market is undergoing change and we won’t know until we look back how the Spring real estate market will perform. That said, there are still clients who need or want to buy and/or sell during this unique time and we are helping our clients navigate through a sound purchase or sale guided by our strong understanding of the market and their best interests in mind.
OxleyRobert Real Estate • 124 Merton St. Suite 102 • 416.495.2939 • @OxleyrobertRE
Elli Davis, Sales Representative
What makes one agent more effective than the others during the COVID-19 pandemic?
An effective agent is one who is efficient, provides responses in a timely manner and keeps communication open with clients, other agents and tradespeople. They have a thorough understanding of the neighbourhoods they work in and are well informed on how different properties compare with others. They also utilize new technology and strategy to keep ahead of the curve.
What is the first thing you do for a buyer you are representing vs. a seller you are representing?
When I first speak with Buyers I qualify their “what, when, where and why”! We discuss their personal needs and wants to prepare a detailed wish list to begin the search. With Sellers I like to begin with an initial visit of their property. During this meeting we will determine their timeline to use as a guideline to set a plan in motion. I will also suggest how to enhance and present their property to its best advantage.
Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd., Brokerage • 55 St. Clair Avenue West • 416.921.1112 • mail@ellidavis.com
Cherri Dorsey McCann, Broker of Record
What makes one agent more effective than others?
I believe the dialogue between an agent and their client needs to be honest and open. It is important to communicate and follow up throughout the entire process. Also provide the client with current and relevant information. Agents need to always protect their client, and look beyond the current transaction.
What is your advice for first time buyers during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Be organized, like having your finances in order and funds ready to deposit. Know what you can afford. Having a dollar amount in your head when you are looking at houses will not help you realistically look at your options. The right one will come along, and you will be pleased when you get it. You will know when it is the home for you!
McCann Realty Group Ltd. Brokerage • 3307 Yonge Street • 416.481.2355 • cheri@cherimccann.com
Debbie Penzo, Real Estate Agent
What makes one agent more effective than others?
Every agent, whether individual or team, is operating like a small business and entrepreneur — you have to be strategic, collaborative, opportunity-driven, and move quickly. For us, a team has enabled us to focus on the main pillars of our business very efficiently: customer service, sales and marketing, and the financials.
What is your best advice for first time home buyers?
To be open to neighbourhoods they may not have considered. We recommend that our first time home buyers not shy away from exploring neighbourhoods that weren’t initially on their radar. We have many families who have purchased in Riverdale who weren’t looking there initially.
Chestnut Park Real Estate/Christie’s International Real Estate • 416.520.1828