Coronavirus: Estate agents shun open-for-inspections in favour of private tours

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Handshakes are in the crosshairs, even for a traditionally relationship-driven industry.

First National chief executive Ray Ellis counsels staff not to put their hand out to shake with clients, but instead to give them the opportunity to offer their hand.

Amid the panic buying that has stripped supermarket shelves of toilet paper, he has encountered toilet paper thieves at open homes.

“We always tell people, put your watches away, put your jewellery away [when your home is open for inspection],” he said.

“We’re asking the people that are displaying their home to hide all their valuables, particularly their toilet paper.”

His offices were increasingly asking visitors to take off their shoes, he said, while staff were cleaning auction paddles before handing them out. He suggested spraying homes so they smelled extra-clean before visitors arrive.

Ray White managing director Dan White has his team wiping down all the door handles before visitors arrive at a home, and displaying signs asking people who have been in restricted countries not to attend.

“Other than that, we’re open for business,” he said. “We’re ensuring we’re providing the safest possible environment.”