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COVID-19 | What it means for VerraTerra tenants and property owners

calculator and pencil on paper

On Saturday, March 28, 2020, Governor Inslee’s office published an update to the Stay-Home order and defined specific real estate activities as essential.

https://www.governor.wa.gov/news-media/inslee-issues-additional-guidance-funerals-and-real-estate-transactions-letter-tribal

While the update is not specifically direct at the property management industry, we share the same purpose and need as the real estate sales industry (we also share the same state license).  I would argue the real estate leasing industry is just as vital, if not more, than the real estate sales industry. Below is our updated plan of action based on the new guidance for real estate.

Seattle area tenants and property owners all have questions.

  • “Do I still have to pay rent if I lose my job due to COVID-19?”
  • “Can I be evicted during a government-mandated lock down?”
  • “Will my property manager still be able to rent my vacant property during the coronavirus crisis?”
  • “How will my property manager handle maintenance or move-out inspections during the Stay Home order?

This post is to inform you how we plan to implement the Governor’s orders and answer the questions on most people’s minds. This plan will continue to evolve as more details or guidance is given by the government. 

VerraTerra Tenants and Owners

As of March 28, 2020:

  1. Showings – Any property currently being marketed will continue to be marketed as usual. Showings are now permitted however it can only be the showing personnel plus one other person and social distancing must be enforced.

  2. Marketing – For properties that become vacant while the Stay Home order is in effect, VTPM will proceed to prepare and list as usual with one exception.  Professional photographers are not considered essential thus any photos we may need will need to be taken by the Property Manager. Once the Stay-Home order is lifted or if professional photographers are deemed essential, we can arrange for professional photos to be taken if the property has not yet been leased.

  3. Tenants Moving In and Out – VTPM continues to recommend extending existing leases to minimize the need to move. However, it is implied in the Governor’s update that moving is allowed.

  4. Inspections – VTPM will resume conducting move-in and move-out inspections, however, no more than two people, including the inspector, may be in the property at the same time and social distancing measures will be enforced.

  5. Cleaning and Maintenance – Move-in and Move-out cleanings will continue. Essential maintenance and repairs will continue.

  6. Rent Payments – Rent is still expected to be paid on-time and in full each month. There is no government relief for rent or mortgage payments at this time.  Late fees will not be charged for late rent nor will we proceed with any new eviction actions per Governor’s orders. Please contact your property manager if you have any questions.

  7. Release from Lease – If you are looking to be released from your lease, please contact your property manager to go over your situation. 

Thank you for your patience in this challenging time.  VerraTerra Property Management
Is committed to doing what we can to help our owners and our tenants get through this.  

If you have any questions, please reach out to your property manager or contact us.

Stay Safe!

James, Lindsey, Danica, Sarah, Chloe, Isara, Kenny

VerraTerra Property Management