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A real estate body is calling for a reconsideration of home inspections in Victoria while simultaneously distancing itself from the divisive stance taken by the REIV regarding the eviction moratorium.
Real Estate Industry Partners (REIP) has said it understands the need and necessity for ongoing restrictions; “however, we also recognise our industry’s ability to provide safe, contactless home inspections”.
The body is calling on the government to reconsider the restrictions on the real estate sector and “understand that the industry is one that can seamlessly adjust, adhere and perform with a COVID-safe plan”.
It has argued that contactless and private vacant home inspections for both rental and for-sale properties should be permitted where they comply with social distancing and hygiene measures.
Citing a growing number of hardship stories from clients requiring urgent sales, purchases or finding a rental property, REIP has outlined that the current restrictions limit movement for these clients to make vast financial decisions without the ability to inspect a property prior.
REIP CEO Sadhana Smiles has indicated she will be working with state MPs on a safe return to inspections as soon as possible.
“We understand the numbers have to come down; however, we want the government to understand our industry can wholly operate contactless,” she commented.
“These requests are entirely for our clients who are facing financial and personal stress and hardships through this time.”
She flagged shelter as a basic human need — “one which our industry predominately provides, hence our services should be deemed essential”.
Despite the organisation’s stance on inspections, REIP said it cannot support the REIV’s divisive call on landlords to end negotiations with tenants.
Ms Smiles said that while REIP does generally support the REIV’s endeavours, in this circumstance the REIP is considering both sides.
“We work with both investors and tenants; to place a moratorium on rental negotiations is not fair on either part,” she stated.
“This will cause further undue stress, and as agents, we are the ones who are best placed to negotiate a commercially viable outcome for all parties.”
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Grace Ormsby
Grace is a journalist across Momentum property and investment brands. Grace joined Momentum Media in 2018, bringing with her a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Communication (Journalism) from the University of Newcastle. She’s passionate about delivering easy to digest information and content relevant to her key audiences and stakeholders.
