ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Maryland REALTORS, the trade association representing real estate professionals in the state, has put out new guidance for showing rental properties amid the pandemic.
WMAR-2 News' Mallory Sofastaii reported on renters' concerns that prospective tenants could bring the coronavirus inside their homes, but they are legally bound to permit landlords to show their units.
READ MORE: Renters worry prospective tenants will infect their homes
After her report aired, Governor Larry Hogan's Office said they would work with Maryland REALTORS to issue guidance relating to this issue.
RELATED: Realtors association looks to governor for guidance on property showings
On Saturday, Maryland REALTORS sent this memo to their members.
They're recommending members:
- Consult with their attorney to review the terms of the lease and any local laws/orders affecting a landlord's rights
- Conduct virtual showings when possible
- If virtual showings are not possible, conducting in-person showings by appointment only after consulting with the tenant
- Following CDC guidelines and other listed advice when conducting in-person showings
- With no court access to enforce legal rights, landlords and tenants should reach safe and reasonable accommodations when possible.
The guidance, however, does not prohibit in-person showings as seen in other states, such as Colorado, where the Attorney General has interpreted their governor's stay-at-home order to not include in-person showings or open houses as a critical or essential service.
Sofastaii reached out to Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh's Office. She was told the governor provides guidance in this situation.
A spokesperson with Maryland REALTORS said the new guidance has been shared with the Governor’s administration.
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