Having a home on the market can be a frightening experience, especially if it is not handled properly. By placing your home on the market, you are allowing people you have never seen before have access to your most important possessions. Most of the time there are absolutely no problems especially in the smaller more rural markets.
However, we can learn a lot from some of the experiences of our fellow realtors, especially those in high traffic areas where lots of things happen that "will never happen here." In order to NOT become a victim, there are several things that you should do.
1. Insist that the lock box placed on your property is properly secured and not just attached with a piece of plastic chain or just leaning against a wall. If your agent tries to dissuade your need for security; get a new real estate agent and report the unsecured lock box to the local Realtor association. Leaving a lock box unsecured is not acceptable.
2. Have your realtor create a specific remark in the MLS listing that the home can be shown by appointment only. Don't allow your home to be shown without your knowledge.
3. While your home is on the market, make sure you keep all of your personal papers and computers secure. It only takes a second for someone to steal something precious...YOUR IDENTITY!
4. Have a frank discussion about the security of your home up front, before you list the home. A good real estate agent will welcome your need for security, as this also protects them.
5. Keep your doors locked and make sure your agent understands that you want them locked.
6. After each showing, make sure all your doors are still locked, and it never hurts to take a look around to determine if anything is missing. It's better to know that day rather than a month later.
7. If possible, ask your real estate agent to request that your home is being shown to clients that have been pre-qualified. This measures their motivation and intent and provides you with identification.
Insist on security. If you can't get your agent to cooperate or take you seriously, find an agent that will.
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