It's time to take one of the state's biggest industries out of hibernation.
The property industry is larger than both mining and tourism put together, and it makes sense to do it now according to Tim McKibbin, CEO of Real Estate Institute NSW.
From this weekend in NSW, agents and vendors will be able to hold traditional property inspections and on-site auctions after a six-week limited shutdown due to COVID-19.
"We are pleased that this has happened," says Mr McKibbin.
"As an industry, we put the health of the community first, all auctions went online and only two people including the agent were able to attend open home inspections.
The industry was very compliant and it didn't go unnoticed by the Government.
- Tim McKibbin, REINSW
"Now the rate of infection has declined, it makes sense to do it now," said Mr McKibbin.
Treasurer Dominic Perrottet and Minister for Health Brad Hazzard said the relaxing of restrictions was a sign of the ongoing success in limiting the spread of COVID-19, but warned there was no place for complacency, with community safety and social distancing to remain an ongoing priority.
"Choosing a home is one of the biggest decisions anybody makes, and easing the restrictions to ensure people can more easily inspect, buy or rent a property is an important step for NSW," Mr Perrottet said.
"The real estate industry has been adaptable in transitioning to online auctions, property inspections by appointment or online, and now as we make the move back to a more normal mode of operation we must ensure safety measures such as social distancing remain a key part of the process."
The WA Government has also relaxed open-for-inspection restrictions.
While both Victoria's and Queensland's real estate market is still continuing to operate its home inspections and auctions online.
