Thank you to Tom Larson, SVP of Legal and Public Affairs at the WRA for additional insight on what the “Safer at Home” order means for the real estate industry as well as providing us insights on varying member benefits through the WRA. Real Estate has been declared an “essential business” in Wisconsin by the Governor. The definition in the order was very broad and included most of the services related to the purchase and sales of a commercial and residential real estate transaction. This also included a wide range of businesses in the building, lending, title industry etc. That being said, we need to practice the utmost care practicing social distancing guidelines in order to follow this order. We would recommend reading the order details as there are many unique cases that may prohibit you from visiting residences, buildings etc.
The WRA has provided a letter with reference to the various sections of the order that give you permission to leave the home and practice your essential business services. Access the letter here: WRA Essential Services Letter Please continue to stay up to date on the details of this order as it can change at any point.
Resources provided through the REALTOR resources:
As questions come up, please reach out to the legal hotline (the WRA does not provide legal advice) but they can advise you to what the law says under certain circumstances.
Wisconsin’s remote online notary law is currently in effect. Even if the register of deeds offices are not actively taking walk in’s they will accept electronic documents with remote signature. The WRA website has a current list of register of deeds offices for reference.
All CARW members have access to Zipforms at no charge that can be used for templated and custom forms. If you need something that is not available, contact the WRA to allow them to help establish something for you. Most Zipforms allow for electronic signatures. If you have any issues, please contact the WRA. For transactions that an electronic signature is not possible, you still must adhere to safety protocols established by the government.
You can access the webinar HERE.
CARW COVID-19 RESOURCES – https://carw.com/covid19/
WRA COVID-19 RESOURCES – https://www.wra.org/covid19/
NAR COVID-19 RESOURCES – https://www.nar.realtor/coronavirus