The world has changed and we are all doing things a little differently these days. Buyers used to call their agents and ask to see a home. An appointment would be set and off they go. Things are a little more complicated now and before you can go look at a house, you'll need to do a couple of things.
1. In Monterey County and elsewhere in California, every person who wants to see a home must first sign a COVID entry form. You are stating that you don't have the virus, aren't feeling sick, will wear a mask and won't touch things. It also warns the buyer that they enter the home at their own risk. The forms must be returned to the listing agent prior to entry. The form is called Coronavirus Property Entry Advisory and Declaration and keep in mind that if you are going to see 6 homes, you'll need to fill out 6 separate entry forms.
2. Many sellers are now requiring a pre-approval letter or proof of funds before they will allow a showing. This means that buyers need to talk to their lender, submit initial paperwork and get a written offer from a lender that tentatively approves them for a mortgage and also shows how much they are allowed to borrow.
For agents, coordinating appointments has always been a challenge especially when there are multiple houses on the list so adding these steps will require a little more patience but keep in mind, we're just trying to protect all parties...buyers, sellers and agents.
If you have specific questions, please feel free to contact me. I'd be happy to help.
Source: “House Hunters Now Need Pre-Approval Letters to Walk in the Door. What the Trend Means for Buyers, Sellers, and Agents,” Money.com (July 6, 2020)