Paul Fitzpatrick | Alumni | University of Guelph

Paul Fitzpatrick

Paul Fitzpatrick

Paul Fitzpatrick, BA ’86

Owner of Home Group Realty

How has your job been impacted by COVID-19?

We closed our office to the public on March 16 and our team of admin staff and realtors have been working remotely since. I’m now managing virtually through video calls, phone calls, emails and text messages. We had a business continuity plan that took less than 24 hours to implement. Overnight, we've gone from public open houses to video virtual open houses. Our team has been working with clients remotely to firm up and close housing transactions and keep pending transactions moving forward to closing.

How has your industry been affected?

The first two weeks of March were record-setting for local real estate, and our brokerage was on track to set new records for late winter and early spring. We still had deals coming together in March, primarily with people that had either just sold and needed to buy, or just bought and needed to sell. Social distancing measures forced us to pivot quickly to service client. I have spent considerable time connecting with leading brokers across the country to determine best practises and ideas for managing our business in a pandemic.

How are you staying busy and connected with family and friends?

We have scheduled regular video calls over drinks and meals to catch up and check in with friends and family. One of the "benefits" of this crisis is that I have become more focused on the people and things in my life that really matter and have made sure to block time for them before wasting any time on Netflix.

What is the most inspiring thing you have witnessed in your community?

The community has rallied together to support one and other. Neighbours are checking in, combining grocery shopping and looking out for each other. I'm inspired that people have been able, for the most part, to become less self-centred and more community-centric.

 

 

 

Have you updated your contact information?

We'll keep you in the know about alumni news, events, and new benefits!

UPCOMING EVENTS

About

Alumni Affairs and Development builds lifelong relationships with alumni, parents, staff, faculty and friends of the University of Guelph. We raise funds to support the University and advance its mission to improve life.

Charitable Registration Number:
10816 1829 RR 0001

 

Event Galleries on Flickr