It is really sad the condition of the world that articles like this need to be written – but they do need to be written. Recently with the murder of a real estate agent in Virginia, the murder of Lindsay Buziak years ago, multiple attacks and dangerous situations each year, and tragedies that go unreported daily – safety for real estate agents and brokers is extremely important.
Are you safe as an agent? Most of us would probably say so – but are you really? Most experts agree that we as humans, in general, do things that make us feel safe, but may not actually make us safe. We may carry pepper spray with us – but do we know how to use it? What about avoiding the situation to begin with? Do we use tried and true safety measures?
Below are some tips to help keep you out of harm’s way right from the start.
1) Keep Things To Daylight Hours
We all have that client that gets off of work late and then wants to view a house. Great – but there is a reason most crimes happen after dark. Try to arrange showings and meetings at homes to daylight hours. And remember – it is not just your client you need to know if you can trust or not. What about the homeowner? Thee homeowner’s friend/cousin/neighbor? There are too many people and variables to take a chance meeting people places after dark.
2) Use Your Cell Phone as a Safety Device
Most phones have a “share location” feature now – so use it. Be sure to share your location with a trusted friend or two. Make sure it is someone who is available if something happens too. Keep your cell phone out and in your hand, with speed dial ready. This won’t really seem suspicious, as most people have their phones out already. Also, while you want to give your client attention, while they are looking at the home, you may want to make a phone call or two – then any assailant will know that people know where you are. While those help, a safety app can be even more effective. One that with one click alerts multiple people that you are in danger.
3) Don’t Meet Up With Anyone You Don’t Know
This should go without saying – but every client and potential client should get a background check, send a copy of their photo ID, and go through a rigorous checking process. Meeting them for the first time? Maybe have them come to your office first. Need to meet them at a home? Bring a colleague with you.
Conclusion
These are just three ways you can help keep yourself safe – but there is so much more. Talk with your office and other agents and find a way to work together to keep yourself safe. No one should have to go to work and worry if they will come back at all – so keep yourself and others safe out there.
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