Good signals are coming about a gradual opening of businesses in Canada. All eyes are anxiously waiting for news of life getting back to normal, or at least to some sort of reopening of businesses and social gatherings.
This post was first published on April 28, 2020. The plans below are the ones announced at that time.
Signs of a gradual opening across Canada
In Canada, the latest signs are pointing the same way. A few days ago, the Chief Medical Officer of Canada hinted at some sort of relaxation. Likewise, B.C. is gearing up for the gradual opening of businesses.
Then, on Monday, Ontario’s Premier announced a three-stage plan to open up businesses. The Premier did not give a specific date. Even so, there is some positive news, as efforts to flatten the COVID-19 curve seem to be working.
Ontario’s plan for a gradual opening
The Ontario plan for reopening businesses has three stages. Each stage builds on the one before it. Moreover, the province will only move ahead when health experts say it is safe. Here is how the gradual opening will work.
Stage 1
- Businesses that can follow healthcare guidelines, such as curbside pickup of merchandise
- Outdoor areas such as parks
- Public gatherings such as funeral services
Stage 2
- Opening of service industries, retail and similar businesses, based on a risk assessment
- Allowing larger gatherings
Stage 3
- Opening of all workplaces responsibly
- Further relaxing public gatherings
- Continued restrictions on large public gatherings
You can find official updates on the Government of Ontario website. Also, for details of later steps, see my posts on Ontario’s three-phased plan and on the facilities that reopened in Phase 2.
What a gradual opening means for local businesses
For small business owners, the news brings hope. However, it also brings work. Shops will need to plan for physical distancing, cleaning and new ways of serving customers. For example, curbside pickup may become a normal part of retail for some time.
In addition, a gradual opening means that not every business will reopen at once. So owners should keep an eye on which stage applies to them. Staff, suppliers and customers will all need clear messages about what changes and when. It may also help to talk with your landlord, bank or accountant early. Many owners will face a slow start, and a simple cash plan for the first few months can make the restart much less stressful.
What a gradual opening means for homeowners and buyers
Real estate is part of daily life for many families in Mississauga and the GTA. During the lockdown, many buyers and sellers put their plans on hold. As the economy slowly reopens, some of them will start to think about moving again.
If you plan to buy, use this time to get ready. First, check your finances and talk to a lender. Next, list what you need in your next home.
If you plan to sell, think about small repairs and a thorough clean. That way, you are ready when the gradual opening reaches more of the economy. Meanwhile, virtual tours and careful, safe showings can keep plans moving. Homeowners who are staying put can also use this quiet time well. Small projects such as painting, garden work or a deep clean can add comfort now and value later.
Staying safe during the gradual opening
Reopening does not end the risk. So please take care of yourselves and follow the safety precautions set by healthcare professionals. Please pray for the safety of all, and for a cure for COVID-19 to be found as soon as possible. #BeSafeAndHelpOthersBeSafe
Follow this link for a recent report on the gradual opening plan: Ontario’s reopening framework (Global News). To look back at how the closures began, read about the province-wide shutdown.
Talk to a Mississauga real estate agent
Do you have questions about what this means for you? I am happy to help. Please send me a message or call me on my direct line at 416 908 5600. A. Q. Mufti, Sales Representative, RE/MAX Real Estate Centre Inc., Brokerage.
