Letter to Governor: Real Estate 'Essential'

At this point, Governor Sununu has not issued a shelter-in-place order, but other states, including Massachusetts, have required all non-essential businesses to close. On March 23, NHAR sent a letter to the Governor’s office requesting that if such a declaration is made in New Hampshire that real estate is deemed an essential service.

Many ongoing real estate transactions are linked to one another; a failure for one transaction to close can lead to a cascading effect on other rentals, leases and transfers of real properties. Many individuals could be caught without adequate housing if their existing residence has been sold or leased and their transaction on their new residence fails to close.

With new digital technology currently used in the industry, these transactions can be completed and still follow the CDC guidelines on social distancing and limited gatherings so as to not put New Hampshire residents at risk.

NHAR President Marc Drapeau's letter can be found here.

"Amidst the sea of change to which the New Hampshire Association of REALTORS has played witness in its 85 years, one thing that has remained constant is the Realtor 'R' and the value we bring to every real estate transaction in which we take part. We are part of a unique community where our familial cooperation transcends our business competition. These are not mere platitudes, but our living ideals, and they are, in fact, the foundation on which we conduct ourselves in our day-to-day affairs."

Joanie McIntire, 2024 President, New Hampshire REALTORS