With all of the recent horror stories of agents being attacked at OH's lately, I thought it mught be time to address a few safety tips regarding this important marketing practice. But first, take a couple of minutes to take the following NAR quiz:
1. When you're showing a client around a property, how should you proceed?
a) Encourage the client to walk in front of you as you move through the property.
b) Lead the client into each room.
c) Stay put and send the client on a self-guided tour.
d) None of the above.
2. What is the best way to meet a new client for the first time?
a) At the property you're showing. You've checked it out and know it's safe.
b) At their residence. This way, you know where they live.
c) At your residence. Your home is a safe place!
d) In your office, where you can introduce them to your colleagues.
3. What is a distress code?
a) An alarm button you can use to send a signal to your local police department.
b) A personal identification number you dial into your cell phone.
c) A word or phrase you can say that indicates you need help, but does not tip off the person you are with.
d) A word or phrase you say to the person who is threatening you.
4. What time during an open house should you be most on guard?
a) At the beginning, when people start arriving.
b) At the end, when one or two people may linger in the house.
c) The times when you are alone.
d) Around midday, when most people are busy with lunch.
5. Where should you park your car when showing a property?
a) In the driveway, if possible, so it is close to the exit.
b) At the curb, so you can't get blocked in.
c) At least a half a block away, so no one can identify which car is yours.
d) You shouldn't drive your own car to a showing. Ride with the client!
Answers
1: A, 2: D, 3: C, 4: B, 5: B
Reprinted from the NAR Safety Quiz, part of the REALTOR® Safety Presentation.
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If you're holding an open house, previewing the property increases your familiarity with the home and the area, enabling a higher level of service to potential buyers. But that same familiarity provides an opportunity to devise and implement a safety plan, which increases safety for you, your clients and people attending the showing.
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These safety tips are primarily for holding an open house, but you may find them helpful for any showing appointment. Make a list and check it twice when you hold an open house. A pre-inspection of the property can reduce surprises.
- Check your cell phone reception
- Verify operation of the lockbox.
- Determine where you'll park. Select a place where you won't get blocked in.
- Look for any potentially dangerous animals.
- Walk the perimeter of the house.
- Notice the type of fence. Is there a gate? Is it locked? Are there holes in the fence?
- Look at the shrubs. Do they provide a hiding place for someone?
- Be familiar with the garage door operation.
- Look for anything that seems amiss.
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| Don't forget the basics if you're showing a home in the evening. Consider outside and street lighting when selecting your parking location. Also, be sure to tell several people where you'll be (e.g. broker, spouse, friend, another agent). |
Holding open houses is an aspect of being a REALTOR®. You can increase the service you bring to your clients by being more familiar with the area, neighbors and features of the house. Don't let your focus on a potential sale or your harried schedule distract you from being safe. Always be aware of your surroundings and develop a plan, just in case something goes wrong.
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