The Impact of COVID-19 on Real Estate Showings in Ontario

As we enter the second week of the COVID-19 state of emergency declaration, one thing rings true — we are all in this together with the focus of individuals and communities coming together to practice social distancing (physical distancing). As a result we have naturally seen showing activity fallen off from the same period in 2019 as the impact of COVID-19 continues to grow. ShowingTime has provided data that shows weekly showings through the ORTIS system.

Through mid-March, year-over-year showing activity was higher nationwide compared to 2019. The current downturn is indicative of the industry’s response to COVID-19, which is changing daily. This chart daily to reflect the most recent data on showings.

For more information on the impact of COVID-19 on real estate showings across North America, please visit: https://www.showingtime.com/impact-of-coronavirus/

Source: ShowingTime (Impact of COVID-19 to Real Estate Showings in Ontario)

Source: ShowingTime (Impact of COVID-19 to Real Estate Showings in Ontario)

While the MLS® Rules require all listings in the MLS® System to be immediately available for showings – at the moment sellers and Realtors® are being creative, embracing technology, to preview homes, but the consensus at this time is to not show homes until further notice.


Information related to the efforts to mitigate the outbreak of COVID-19 is constantly evolving. To follow the guidelines and precautions set by Canada’s public health authorities, see Health Canada’s website for comprehensive coverage.


The information provided in this feature has been sourced by Adam Stewart, Real Estate Sales Representative with Chestnut Park Realty Southwestern Ontario Ltd. Brokerage. The information has been drawn from sources deemed to be reliable, but the accuracy and completeness of the information is not guaranteed. In providing this information, neither Adam Stewart, nor Chestnut Park Realty Southwestern Ontario Ltd. Brokerage assumes any responsibility or liability.

Adam Stewart is a Real Estate Sales Representative with Chestnut Park Realty Southwestern Ontario Ltd. Brokerage serving Guelph, Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Wellington County and Southwestern Ontario markets. Adam can be reached at 519-265-2602, online at www.adamstewart.ca, or by email at adam.stewart@chestnutparkwest.com.