Dear REALTOR® family,

We are writing to provide a brief update on recent events as they relate to real estate and your business.

Last week, Alabama REALTORS® and a coalition of real estate, construction and banking groups submitted a request to Governor Kay Ivey that real estate services and related activities be included as essential services should Alabama follow stay-at-home orders issued by California, New York and other states.

Earlier today, Governor Ivey and the Alabama Department of Public Health issued an Amended Public Health Order to close all non-essential businesses in Alabama in order to prevent the further spread of COVID-19. Real estate services and activities were not included in the list of businesses required to close and may continue to operate so long as all guidelines issued by the Department of Public Health are followed. 

At all times, real estate activities must strictly adhere to the guidelines set forward by the Department of Public Health: “all non-work related gatherings of 10 persons or more, or non-work related gatherings of any size that cannot maintain a consistent six-foot distance between persons, are prohibited. Employers shall take all reasonable steps to meet these standards for employees and customers.” This is not a choice for our members as to whether to follow these guidelines- it is a responsibility for our members to do what is being asked of us to slow the further spread of COVID-19.

It is further recommended that you take affirmative steps to consider the cancellation of open houses, and consider modifying showings to remote and virtual methods for the duration of the pandemic. Please be a positive voice in your sphere of influence within your company and community on the importance of complying with the orders from state and national leaders.

We will continue to advocate  tirelessly on your behalf and remain in contact with state and local leaders to be a resource and provide information that may be helpful to them as they make prayerful decisions about the health, safety and well being of citizens and their communities. All leaders remain committed to battling this health crisis and doing as much as can be done to allow businesses to remain open that can be safely done under recommended guidelines and social distancing. This is a difficult balance to maintain and will be constantly evaluated throughout the duration of the pandemic. As we have seen, all of this is moving extremely fast and can change very quickly.

We will have further information and legal FAQs in next week’s Real Estate Alabama. Please also frequently check AAR’s COVID-19 resource page as well as NAR’s COVID-19 resource page for consistent updates as developments occur.  

Please be safe and put the health and safety of you and your family first.  May God bless you and your family during this time.