September is Realtors Safety Month!
Here are 10 tips to ensure you’re safe while showing houses!
As a real estate agent, you will be meeting many strangers in unfamiliar surroundings. Here are 10 easy tips will keep you safe in many situations – even when you don’t know who’s going to be on the other side of the door.
Tip #1: Touch Base
Let someone know where you are, who you are meeting with and when you are expected to be back. Ask this person to check-in on you if you’re gone longer than expected.
Tip #2: Have an Excuse Ready
If you ever find yourself in an unsafe situation, have an excuse ready so you can leave. An example could be, “I have a meeting at the office with my boss in 10 minutes, I need to leave.” This excuse shows that someone is waiting for you and will be concerned if you’re not there. It also gives you a reason to leave immediately.
Tip #3: Use Your Car
Given the option, try to use your car while showing multiple houses. This ensures that you are in control and will not be taken somewhere you don’t want to go.
Tip #4: Be Aware of Your Surroundings
When you get to your listing, take a few seconds to ensure there is no potential danger. Ask yourself the following questions… Is there any questionable activity in the area? Are you parked in a well-lit, visible location? While showing the house be aware of your surroundings and if something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut.
Tip #5: Keep it Light
Schedule your showings during the day. If you have to show a house after daylight, be sure to turn on all lights and do not cover any windows.
Tip #6: Lock Doors
Make sure that when you are leaving a property, that you scan the property to ensure no one is there. Then lock the doors as you leave.
Tip #7: Don’t Text and Drive
While being a real estate agent means a lot of driving, make sure to never text and drive. Keep your eyes on the road.
Tip #8: Talk to Neighbors
If you see neighbors, inform them of what you’re doing. Ask if he or she will keep an eye out for anything out of the ordinary.
Tip #9: Don’t Use the “V” Word
When posting a listing, never use the word vacant. This might make it attractive to criminals.
Tip #10: Learn Self-Defense Skills
In the worst-case scenario, you’re going to need to learn how to defend yourself. Take a self-defense class or even watch a YouTube tutorial in case you ever have to defend yourself in a situation.
For more information and safety tips, visit: www.nar.realtor/safety/56-safety-tips-for-realtors
