Guidance on Property Showings during Shelter in Place Order


Open Houses & Showing/Touring Properties


No in-person open houses or broker tours are allowed in Marin, Sonoma, Napa, Solano or Mendocino counties due to local and regional Stay-Home orders. For safe showing practices, please refer to the CDPH COVID-19 Industry Guidance: Real Estate Transactions: https://files.covid19.ca.gov/pdf/guidance-real-estate--en.pdf


County Health Orders vary from County to County. Find links to the Public Health Order for each BAREIS primary county under the Federal & County Resources tab.


Please update your listings for occupied properties. Change showing instructions to:

  • Do not Show
  • Contact Listing Agent
  • See Confidential Remarks

Broker Tours Suspended

Broker tours have been suspended until further notice by the local organizations that govern these tours. As an alternative to in-person showings, open houses and broker tours, many agents are utilizing walkthrough videos and virtual tours.


Walkthrough Videos & Virtual Open Houses

If you have a virtual tour or home walk-through video, you may add a link to:

  • Virtual Media field – The first media entered will pass to most public sites
  • Open House - Add a Virtual Open House, will pass to Zillow, Trulia. Does not pass to Realtor.com
  • Confidential Remarks

Virtual Open House and the Virtual Link

BAREIS MLS® syndicates to major sites such as Zillow, Trulia, and Realtor.com. Each site has their own platforms that they support regarding Virtual Open House information. To maintain transparency, BAREIS has investigated each site to understand how this information is posted.

Zillow Group:

  • Zillow and Trulia will not display a link in the Marketing remarks and replaces your remarks with generic text that reiterates only the facts about the core characteristics of the home
  • Zillow will display the link for a Virtual Open House and supports YouTube

Realtor.com:

  • Realtor.com will remove the link from the Marketing Remarks
  • Realtor.com will display MLS Virtual Tour links on the picture, but will not display Open House Virtual Links
  • Realtor.com allows scheduling a live, virtual walk through using:
    • Zoom, Google Meet/Hangouts, Webex, BlueJeans, Join.me, Zoho meeting



C.A.R.’s Best Practices Guidelines


C.A.R.’s Best Practices Guidelines


The CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® has published Best Practices Guidelines to assist you in the safe practice of real estate. View C.A.R.’s Coronavirus Updates and Guidelines here: https://www.carcovidupdates.org/best-practices-guidelines







CBS Instructions


Are your sellers nervous about placing a lockbox to allow showing? Activate the Call Before Showing (CBS) CODE to control access to your lockbox.

What is a CBS Code?

The CBS code (Call Before Showing) allows the listing agent to control lockbox access by requiring the showing agent to call the listing agent to obtain a code before opening the lockbox. The showing agent will not be allowed access to the key container without entering the CBS code into the lockbox.

I am a listing agent. How do I find the CBS code for my lockbox?

Every SUPRA lockbox is programmed with a CBS code.

Supra eKey users will find the CBS code for each box in their Inventory with the eKey app:

  • Open the Supra eKEY app and select My Keyboxes.
  • Select the box’s serial number.
  • Click Edit at the bottom of the screen.
  • Select Require CBS. (If you don’t want to activate the CBS code, do not click Program at the bottom.)

Xpress Key users will find CBS codes for their lockboxes online at SupraWeb: http://www.supraekey.com/Pages/Home.aspx You will need to enter the serial number of the lockbox and shackle code.

How do I activate (or disable) the CBS code for my lockbox?

Supra eKey users can activate the CBS code in their lockbox with the eKey app if they are in front of the lockbox:

  • Turn on the lockbox.
  • Open the Supra eKEY app and select My Keyboxes.
  • Select the keybox you want to activate the CBS code for.
  • Select Program Keybox.
  • Select Require CBS to enable or disable.
  • Select Program.
  • Enter shackle code.

Supra Xpress key users will not be able to enable or disable the CBS Code for their lockboxes without bringing the lockbox into a BAREIS office or service center for programming (this service is not available while Shelter in Place orders are in effect).

How will showing agents know that my lockbox requires a CBS code to access the property?

Listing agents using the CBS code feature should indicate that a CBS code is required in the listing’s Confidential Showing Instructions field. Be sure to indicate whether you want the showing agent to call you or text you to obtain the CBS code.

** Do not put the actual CBS code in the confidential remarks.

I am a showing agent. How will I know whether a lockbox requires a CBS code?

The listing agent using a lockbox with the CBS code feature enabled should indicate that a CBS code is required in the Confidential Showing Instructions of the listing.

How will I obtain the CBS code if I want to view a listed property?

Please contact the listing agent for a CBS code. Only the listing agent will be able to provide you with the CBS code to access their box. Neither BAREIS nor SUPRA will be able to provide this information to you.

I am a showing agent at the property and I know the CBS code. How do I enter a CBS code into my Supra key?

  • Start the Obtain Key operation in the key.
  • Enter the CBS code when prompted.
  • Follow the standard procedure to release the key container.

XpressKEY users

  • Turn the XpressKEY on.
  • Tap the arrow for more options.
  • Tap Next.
  • Tap CBS.
  • Type in the CBS code and tap Enter.
  • Tap Done to exit
  • Follow the standard procedure to release the key container.

You can reach Supra directly by calling 877-699-6787.




We are here for you!


While all BAREIS MLS offices are now closed in accordance with the shelter in place orders, rest assured that we are still here to assist you. Our employees are working from home with full phone and email capabilities. You can reach us at 707-575-8000 during regular business hours or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Managing Listings during the Shelter in Place Order


DOM/CDOM


Many members have had questions about how they can manage Days on Market (DOM) and Cumulative Days on Market (CDOM) counts for their listings in BAREIS. The Board of Directors recently considered a request to pause DOM across every status in BAREIS. After careful consideration, the decision was made to not pause the DOM count for Active or Contingent listing status, as the MLS is tasked with preserving the historic records of listings in our system. Click here to read more about DOM/CDOM. BAREIS wants to keep you fully informed as the trusted, knowledgeable advisor on your marketplace.

Agents wanting to pause DOM/CDOM count and utilize the MLS to expose their listings to other real estate professionals continue to have the ability to utilize the Coming Soon or Temp Off Market statuses.

Here’s additional information that will help you manage your listings throughout this emergency period:

Coming Soon Status:

  • DOM & CDOM do not count
  • Maximum Coming Soon status time is 30 days
  • Viewable by all BAREIS members & their clients
  • Does not pass to Internet

Temp Off Market Status:

  • Temp Off Market Status indicates there is a binding agreement between the listing broker and the seller and the listing may not be solicited by other brokers/agents
  • DOM & CDOM counts are paused and will resume when the listing is returned to Active or Contingent status
  • You may indicate in the Confidential/Showing Instructions whether the seller will consider offers or allow showings while Temp Off Market
  • No exclusion is required
  • There is no time limit on how long a listing remains in this status

Withdrawn/Cancelled Status:

  • Withdrawn/Cancelled status indicates the property is no longer under a valid listing contract
  • If the property remains under a listing contract after being withdrawn from the MLS, an MLS exclusion form is required
  • Must remain out of the MLS over 10 days before a new listing can be created in BAREIS
  • If a new listing is created in BAREIS after 10 days, DOM count will reset to zero on the new listing
  • If a new listing is created in BAREIS after 30 days, DOM & CDOM counts will reset to zero on the new listing

Here is a link to a flyer that explains the differences between Temp Off Market status and Withdrawn/Cancelled status in greater detail.

Active Status:

  • DOM & CDOM continues counting until changed to Temp Off Market, Pending, Sold or Withdrawn/Cancelled status
  • Passes to internet sites if you enter Pass to Internet = Yes

Status DOM/CDOM Allowed Time Active Listing Contract Pass to Internet
Coming Soon Zero, until On-Market Date 30 Days Maximum Required No
Active Counts Normally Until Expiration Date Required Yes
Temp. Off-Market Paused; Resumes counting with On-Market Status Until Expiration Date Required No
Withdrawn/Cancelled Stopped Indefinite Cancelled - Must provide exclusion if a new listing contract is executed No



We are here for you!


While all BAREIS MLS offices are now closed in accordance with the shelter in place orders, rest assured that we are still here to assist you. Our employees are working from home with full phone and email capabilities. You can reach us at 707-575-8000 during regular business hours or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Editorial


Appraisers need photos for Coming Soon and Sold Off MLS listings


As you are probably aware appraisals will be performed as an exterior only or desk top valuation to comply with the shelter in place orders and promote the best practices of breaking the chain of transmission of coronavirus.

Both FNMA and FMLC have issued guidance to lenders allowing these valuation products. Lenders are requesting exteriors and desktop appraisals for their purchases and refinances. No one is forced to do an interior inspection and its is widely discouraged. Appraisers will be referencing images for both subject and comparables when they are available in MLS to complete these assignments. Generally, most listings have ample images and as a working appraiser, I am grateful for the photographic detail.

I am making the suggestion for off-market sales that exterior images and a few representative interior images be added to the listings. In particular - kitchens, baths and a view image. This will become increasingly important in the months to come as the sold comparables of both on and off-market transactions will become important comparables for future use.

Respectfully -

Mark Lindsay

Appraiser




We are here for you!


While all BAREIS MLS offices are now closed in accordance with the shelter in place orders, rest assured that we are still here to assist you. Our employees are working from home with full phone and email capabilities. You can reach us at 707-575-8000 during regular business hours or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Government Resources


Federal & State Resources:


The federal government has deemed Real Estate an essential business: View Advisory Memorandum


Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) COVID-19 website.


California Department of Public Health COVID-19 website.


California COVID-19 Blueprint for a Safer Econom website.


California Department of Public Health and Cal/OSHA's COVID-19 Industry Guidance for Real Estate Transactions: PDF Document.


County Resources:

Marin County: View Website

Marin County’s Shelter-In-Place Order identifies real estate agents enabling residential transactions (including rentals, leases, and home sales) as essential businesses and places the following restrictions on residential real estate activity:

  • Appointments and other residential viewings must only occur virtually.
  • If a virtual viewing is not feasible, by appointment with no more than two visitors at a time residing within the same household or living unit and one individual showing the unit.
  • In-person visits are not allowed when the occupant is present in the residence.

While working, real estate professionals are required to prepare and post a “Social Distancing Protocol” and comply with the Social Distancing and Hygiene Requirements identified in the Order.


No in-person open houses or broker tours may occur during the Shelter-In-Place Order.

The Shelter-In-Place Order will continue to be in effect until it is rescinded, superseded, or amended in writing by the Health Officer. The full text of the order is available online: https://coronavirus.marinhhs.org/marin-public-health-order-may-15-2020

If a real estate agent must enter a home, it is important to follow the California Department of Public Health and Cal/OSHA's COVID-19 Industry Guidance for Real Estate Transactions: https://covid19.ca.gov/pdf/guidance-real-estate.pdf

Please note: The SIP Order currently in effect in this market may impose additional restrictions or obligations on real estate professionals that have not been identified by BAREIS in this communication. You are encouraged to consult with your broker or an attorney to ensure you are conducting business in accordance with the SIP order currently in effect in this market.


Mendocino County: View Website

Mendocino County’s Shelter in Place Order identifies real estate agents & brokers enabling real estate transactions (including rentals, leases, and sales) as essential businesses and places the following restrictions on residential real estate activity:

  • Residential viewings must only occur virtually, if feasible.
  • In person viewing must be made by appointment and include no more than two visitors at a time residing within the same household or living unit and one individual showing the unit.
  • The person showing the property must ensure that every surface touched during a viewing is disinfected, that everyone present for the viewing wears a facial covering at all times, and that social distancing requirements are adhered to at all times.
  • In person viewing is not allowed when occupant is still residing in residence.

While working, real estate professionals are required to prepare and post a “Social Distancing Protocol” and comply with the Social Distancing and Hygiene Requirements identified in the Order.


No in-person open houses or broker tours may occur during the Shelter-In-Place Order.

The Shelter-In-Place Order will continue to be in effect until it is rescinded, superseded, or amended in writing by the Health Officer: The full text of the order is available online: https://www.mendocinocounty.org/home/showdocument?id=35758

If a real estate agent must enter a home, it is important to follow the California Department of Public Health and Cal/OSHA's COVID-19 Industry Guidance for Real Estate Transactions: https://covid19.ca.gov/pdf/guidance-real-estate.pdf

Please note: The SIP Order currently in effect in this market may impose additional restrictions or obligations on real estate professionals that have not been identified by BAREIS in this communication. You are encouraged to consult with your broker or an attorney to ensure you are conducting business in accordance with the SIP order currently in effect in this market.


Napa County: View Website

Napa County’s Shelter-In-Place Order identifies real estate agents enabling residential transactions (including rentals, leases, and home sales) as essential businesses and places the following restrictions on residential real estate activity:

  • Residential viewings should occur virtually as much as possible.
  • In-person real estate viewings should be by appointment only with no more than two visitors at a time residing within the same household or living unit and one individual showing the unit.
  • In-person visits are not allowed when the occupant is still residing in the residence unless gloves, masks and shoe coverings are worn during the visit, there is no contact with staging items or personal property during the showing, and the seller or landlord cleans the property after the visit, with products on the Environmental Protection Agency’s approved list of disinfectants, paying close attention to the areas that may be commonly touched such as door knobs, handles, counter tops, and staging items.

The Shelter-In-Place Order remain in effect until it is rescinded or amended. The full text of the order is available online: https://www.countyofnapa.org/DocumentCenter/View/17112/Shelter-at-Home-Order-6-19-2020--?bidId=

Napa County Guidance to the Real Estate Industry: https://www.countyofnapa.org/DocumentCenter/View/17248/Guidance-to-the-real-estate-industry-PDF

No in-person open houses or broker tours may occur during the Shelter-In-Place Order.

If a real estate agent must enter a home, it is important to follow the California Department of Public Health and Cal/OSHA's COVID-19 Industry Guidance for Real Estate Transactions: https://covid19.ca.gov/pdf/guidance-real-estate.pdf

Please note: The SIP Order currently in effect in your market may impose additional restrictions or obligations on real estate professionals that have not been identified by BAREIS in this communication. You are encouraged to consult with your broker or an attorney to ensure you are conducting business in accordance with the SIP order currently in effect in your market.


Solano County: View Website

Solano County’s Public Health Order establishes that real estate businesses must follow the guidelines established by the California Department of Public Health and Cal/OSHA for the real estate industry: https://covid19.ca.gov/pdf/guidance-real-estate.pdf


The Shelter-In-Place Order is expected to remain in effect until the California State of Emergency is lifted and the California Stay at Home Order is rescinded. The full text of the order is available online: http://www.solanocounty.com/civicax/filebank/blobdload.aspx?BlobID=32443

No in-person open houses or broker tours may occur during the Shelter-In-Place Order.

All real estate professionals operating in Solano County are required to follow the California Department of Public Health and Cal/OSHA's COVID-19 Industry Guidance for Real Estate Transactions: https://covid19.ca.gov/pdf/guidance-real-estate.pdf

Please note: The SIP Order currently in effect in this market may impose additional restrictions or obligations on real estate professionals that have not been identified by BAREIS in this communication. You are encouraged to consult with your broker or an attorney to ensure you are conducting business in accordance with the SIP order currently in effect in this market.


Sonoma County: View Website

Sonoma County’s Shelter-In-Place Order establishes that real estate businesses must follow the guidelines established by the California Department of Public Health and Cal/OSHA for the real estate industry: https://covid19.ca.gov/pdf/guidance-real-estate.pdf


The Shelter-In-Place Order is expected to remain in effect until the California State of Emergency is lifted and the California Stay at Home Order is rescinded. The full text of the order is available online: https://socoemergency.org/order-of-the-health-officer-c19-15-stay-well-sonoma-county/

No in-person open houses or broker tours may occur during the Shelter-In-Place Order.

All real estate professionals operating in Sonoma County are required to follow the California Department of Public Health and Cal/OSHA's COVID-19 Industry Guidance for Real Estate Transactions: https://covid19.ca.gov/pdf/guidance-real-estate.pdf

Please note: The SIP Order currently in effect in your market may impose additional restrictions or obligations on real estate professionals that have not been identified by BAREIS in this communication. You are encouraged to consult with your broker or an attorney to ensure you are conducting business in accordance with the SIP order currently in effect in your market.





We are here for you!


While all BAREIS MLS offices are now closed in accordance with the shelter in place orders, rest assured that we are still here to assist you. Our employees are working from home with full phone and email capabilities. You can reach us at 707-575-8000 during regular business hours or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

How-To Create a Scheduled HotSheet

HotSheet Search

This video will teach you how to set up a Scheduled-HotSheet search in BAREIS MLS®.

You can receive regular e-mails on the current Market Activity to stay on top.

 

How-To use Aergo for Stats

Aergo Search

This video will teach you how to use Aergo software licensed by BAREIS MLS®.

Aergo is a map-driven tool for statistics.

 

How-To input Virtual Media on your listing

Virtual Media Input

This video will teach you how to input a Virtual Media link into your listing.

Virtual Media is hosted on a 3rd-party site and linked through BAREIS MLS®.

 

How-to make a Virtual Open House & Broker Tour

Virtual Tour Link

This video will teach you how to input an Open House or Broker Tour Virtual Media link onto your listing.

Virtual Media is hosted on a 3rd-party site and linked through BAREIS MLS®.

 

Overview of Virtual Tour and 3rd-party options

Virtual Media Overview

This video will teach you how to input a Virtual Media link into your listing.

We will also discuss how to create your own virtual walk-through, and options for Virtual Media on 3rd-party products.

 

How-to Upload videos to YouTube & Vimeo

Upload Overview

This video will teach you how to upload a Video to YouTube & Vimeo.

 

How-to share video links from YouTube & Vimeo

Copying and Sharing Links

This video will teach you how to take a link from a 3rd-party site to upload to your listing..

 



We are here for you!


While all BAREIS MLS offices are now closed in accordance with the shelter in place orders, rest assured that we are still here to assist you. Our employees are working from home with full phone and email capabilities. You can reach us at 707-575-8000 during regular business hours or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

BAREIS Statistics Snapshot


Key Market Indicators 1st Quarter (2019 vs. 2020), by County

These statistics were generated using the Aergo platform. This tool is available to all members. Aergo is map-driven and can target a city, neighborhood, or custom area.

Marin County – DocLink

Mendocino County – DocLink

Napa County – DocLink

Solano County – DocLink

Sonoma County – DocLink

MLS Status 1st Quarter (2019 vs. 2020), by County

These statistics were generated by county and by status

Marin County – DocLink

Mendocino County – DocLink

Napa County – DocLink

Solano County – DocLink

Sonoma County – DocLink





We are here for you!


While all BAREIS MLS offices are now closed in accordance with the shelter in place orders, rest assured that we are still here to assist you. Our employees are working from home with full phone and email capabilities. You can reach us at 707-575-8000 during regular business hours or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..