FACTS:                    

The seller is insisting that the listing agent host regular open houses for the property.  The listing agent is hesitant to do so in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the potential health and liability considerations.  The listing agent has expressed these concerns to the seller and the seller insists that open houses be held nonetheless.

ISSUE:                      

May a listing agent host an open house in light of the COVID-19 pandemic?

ANSWER:                

See discussion.

DISCUSSION:         

The listing agent has valid concerns with the health and liability consequences that may flow from hosting an open house during this pandemic.  However, there is no prohibition against the listing agent conducting an open house.  The National Association of REALTORS® and the Arizona REALTORS® have published guidelines to assist licensees when hosting an open house.  See here. Provided that the listing agent is comfortable with the open house under the precautions identified, and after consultation with its broker, the listing agent can hold an open house during the COVID-19 pandemic. Note: The open house should follow the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention guidelines regarding limiting gatherings and social distancing.