In-person auctions are back in Canberra this weekend. Here’s what you need to know

As Canberra eases out of lockdown, in-person auctions will be allowed to recommence in the ACT this weekend.

While it’s a move in the right direction for the industry as a whole, there are still a number of restrictions in place, and some agents are choosing to hold off on in-person auctions until restrictions ease further.

From Friday October 15, real estate agents in the ACT will be allowed to conduct in-person outdoor auctions with a maximum of 25 people or one person per four square metres, whichever is less. The 25 person cap does not include real estate agents, but does include any vendors who attend.

The limited numbers could mean some agents will insist on pre-registration for bidders, and onlookers may be turned away to keep within the cap.

And some agencies aren't returning to in-person auctions just yet. Ray White Canberra will continue with online auctions until restrictions ease further, to ensure there are no limits on access to their auctions.

“We already have everything set up for online actions, so we’re going to continue that process for the meantime so we can allow as many bidders as we need to at each auction. This means we can maximise bidders to get the best result for our vendors, and it also allows any interested onlookers to tune in," says Jake Battenally from Ray White Canberra.

"If you do plan to attend an auction, make sure you reach out to the agent ahead of time to confirm the details, and pre-register if need be. And if you’re an on-looker, prepare to be turned away as agents need to reserve the limited places for the bidders."

Masks must be worn at auctions, and all other COVID safe practices, such as social distancing and using hand sanitiser will still be enforced.

While in-person auctions are resuming, property inspections will remain restricted to one-on-one appointments.

The restrictions mean real estate agents in the ACT can only conduct in-person house inspections by private appointment, and only members from a single household can attend an inspection appointment, with just one agent.