As of 2022-01-03 – Covid Procedures Update – STEP TWO (NO OPEN HOUSES)
Ontario Real Estate Advisory
Effective January 3, 2022
As part of Ontario’s modified Step Two public health measures, real estate activity was permitted to continue with specific limitations. We are sharing this for reference, transparency, and to document how transactions were responsibly managed during this period.
What This Meant for Buyers, Sellers, and Landlords
Open Houses
Open houses were not permitted during this phase.
In-Person Showings
In-person real estate showings were allowed by appointment only and were required to follow all applicable public health rules and guidelines.
Impact on Real Estate Brokerages and Showings
As an essential service, real estate brokerages were permitted to operate with safeguards in place:
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Face coverings
Masks or face coverings were required for all individuals entering real estate offices, attending showings, or entering indoor spaces related to a transaction. -
Active screening
Brokerages were required to actively screen staff entering the workplace. Active screening for clients and attendees at showings was strongly encouraged to reduce risk. -
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
PPE for eyes, nose, and mouth was required for workers who needed to come within two metres of an individual not wearing a mask indoors and who were not separated by a physical barrier.
Short-Term Rentals
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Short-term rentals were permitted only for individuals in need of housing.
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This restriction did not apply to hotels, motels, lodges, resorts, student residences, or shared accommodation.
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It did apply to cabins and cottages.
Additionally, the following amenities at short-term rentals were required to remain closed:
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Indoor pools
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Steam rooms and saunas
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Indoor whirlpools
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Fitness centres and other indoor recreational facilities
Why We Share This
For buyers, sellers, landlords, and investors across Barrie, Innisfil, and Simcoe County, these measures affected how transactions were structured, timed, and safely completed. Understanding past regulatory environments helps provide context when reviewing timelines, delays, or decisions made during that period.
We believe informed clients make better decisions. Our role is not just transactional, but advisory—helping you navigate real estate within the broader regulatory, health, and market framework.
For the full list of health measures as they stood at the time, guidance was provided by the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA).
If you ever have questions about how regulatory changes—past or present—affect your real estate plans, investments, or obligations, connect with the MovingSimcoe.com team. We advise with context, experience, and clarity.
View our listings online from the safety of your home here
We can also arrange virtual showings for you
