On Friday, March 20, 2020, Gov. Andrew Cuomo held a press conference and announced that he is signing a 10-Point Policy to assure uniform safety for everyone.  The governor ordered 100% closure of all offices for non-essential businesses statewide, to take effect by 8pm Sunday, March 22, 2020, noting exceptions for services such as groceries and healthcare. 

In his press conference, Governor Cuomo specifically mentioned real estate activities stating, “I don’t know who you think you’re going to rent an apartment to now anyways if you kick someone out…by my mandate you couldn’t even have your real estate agent showing the apartment. Same with commercial tenants.”

As such, it is believed that all showings and open houses will be prohibited after Sunday evening, March 22, 2020. Furthermore, all brokerage offices will also need to close Sunday evening.  Licensees are still able to work from home.  For more information on the Governor’s 10-point NYS on PAUSE plan visit governor.ny.gov