The situation in San Francisco brought about by the ongoing COVID-19 menace is very much fluid these days. While other California counties are headstrong in their decision to resuscitate the local economy by reopening businesses, sudden spikes in the number of positive cases have driven San Francisco’s Mayor London Breed to delay the resumption of businesses in the area.
With San Francisco protecting itself from the threat of COVID-19, certain challenges in moving to the area may arise. If you have already bought San Francisco real estate, being in the know of what you could and couldn’t do while making that move will be of valuable use to you.
Here’s what you need to know about moving in a global pandemic:
The “essential”-ness of moving
While the federal government has issued a temporary reprieve in evictions in response to the pandemic, the length of time that this is being enforced differs from state to state. Thus, those coming from rented residences must move at the soonest time possible, lest they reach the deadline of the eviction stay in their area.
However, if you have the option to wait it out until the government has a better handle of the COVID-19 situation, then it’s best to stay put and keep safe.
Moving services
Even if you’re bent on moving to real estate you purchased in Noe Valley or in any other neighborhood in San Francisco, this won’t be possible if moving partners are not in operation. Thankfully, moving services have been considered as “essential” so you can book one for your move.
Also, make sure to do some research on the service providers themselves and see if their businesses are still operating, are temporarily closed, or have shut down permanently.
Getting new furniture
It may be a bit easier now to buy new furniture and have it installed in your new home, compared to when shelter-in-place protocols were much harsher. However, not all stores have fully opened and for those that have opened, they have shorter hours of operation. Thus, be ready for a longer wait before your home gets fully furnished.
Even the mode of delivery needs some adjustments in this era of social distancing. The delivery guys will most likely be covered in face masks and gloves, and you may also have to make your own precautionary measures while the installation is taking place. You can opt not to meet them face-to-face, though, and just leave notes where you want the ordered piece installed, as well as an envelope containing their tip somewhere where they can easily see it.
Be flexible – and kind!
Moving, on its own, is already quite tedious to begin with. The current pandemic just made it more challenging. If things are going a little slower than they should, learn to be more understanding and to adjust to the situation. And, in your own little way, try to be more appreciative of the efforts put in by those who are risking their own health to make your move a success.
For more moving tips and for other real estate needs like searching for homes for sale in San Francisco and its beautiful neighborhoods like Noe Valley, Amir Hardy is here to help. Get in touch with me at 415.602.0570 or send me an email at amir(dotted)hardy(at)compass(dotted)com so we can discuss your options.