crying little girlIt's a sad day when one of our own is taken away from his familyReal Estate Agent found dead I thought I would share this with the rest of AR community to remind you to always be conscious of your surroundings.  We are the only industry that advertises how to get us 24 hours around the clock and meet perfect strangers in remote vacant houses or desolate lots in the middle of the woods. 

Always go with your gut, if you don't feel comfortable with a new found client, bring a friend, family member or just work your way out of the appointment.  Woman should always be cautious, however, you can see men are easily victimized.  Make sure you have plans in place when you leave the office.  Always have your first meeting at the office before heading out to see houses.  We have a duress code in our office, if I call my office and use a certain word in the conversation, they know I need help.  Of course, you need to let them what your plans are before you leave.  While showing, make sure you never place your client between you and the door in bedrooms and the like.  Always carry your keys in your hand...sticking through your fingers when you punch or swing they'll do extra damage, not only that, if you have to run back to your car, you're not fumbling for them in your pocket or purse.  If your client follows you in their car, make sure you park on the street so that you don't get blocked in.  These are only a few safety tips and I am sure there tons of others, but nothing beats going with your gut...if it just doesn't feel right.  Make a commission another day!  Hope your Memorial day weekend is uneventful.

Story Line Updates:

http://video.nbc4.com/player/?id=112101

http://www.gazette.net/stories/053107/collnew175757_32332.shtml

http://www.bowieblade.com/vault/cgi-bin/bowie/view/2007B/05/31-21.HTM

 
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22 Comments on Realtor Killed in the Basement

MAY
27
2007

Bob,

So Sad to hear the news..I always bring my MALE partner with me to any showings or listings.  I also stress this point to FSBO'S, who are they allowing in their home?

8:46am • #1
42 Featured Posts

Bob

Thanks for posting this.  I heard about the murder on the local news just a couple of minutes ago and couldn't believe the story-line.  We just can't take chances in this day and age.  If something seems wrong, it probably is. 

8:46am • #2
343,321 Points 110 Featured Posts Outside Blog

This is very sad news.  I feel so sad for the agent and his family. All we can do is question "why?" 

kk 

8:52am • #3
5 Featured Posts

Paula, you make a good point for the FSBOs.  You reminded me also about Open Houses too.  There are stories around about people showing up at open houses to steal the drugs out the medicine cabinets.  Drug addicts can turn violent too.  So, here we have to be very careful.

Ed, I couldn't believe it the first time I heard it either.  It's still under investigation.  I just wonder what the motivate was...

8:56am • #4
5 Featured Posts
KK, the worse part is we may never know why.
9:01am • #5

Besides the fact that they sell less than one percent of homes, this is why I no longer do open houses. We don't have nine lives.

9:11am • #6
That is very sad. We also have a duress code in our office, we call it the red file code. If I'm in trouble, I call in and ask for info on the red file.
9:12am • #7
2 Featured Posts Outside Blog
Bob - Senseless! We always need to be careful. I have had to say no to a few showings lately because they did not want to meet at my office first.
9:12am • #8
5 Featured Posts

Lee, This one wasn't an open house, but problems with drugs are happening now.  But you're right open are not made to sell the house only to get new business.

Kristine, thanks for stopping by

Paula, You have to question why they don't want to...we are a business.  They meet the doctor at their office and other professionals

9:25am • #9
2 Featured Posts

It always saddens me to read about tragic events like this.  Someone just trying to earn a living doing something good for others and they pay with their life.  It really stokes me up.

I'd like 5 minutes alone in a room with these monsters...I guarantee they wouldn't hurt anyone else.

9:26am • #10
5 Featured Posts
Steven, It is a shame that it's just not our industry.  Senseless acts!
9:40am • #11
213,784 Points 41 Featured Posts Outside Blog
Bob, my apologies to you for posting on this even though you had the story posted already.  I got thrown for a loop when I heard the news and just ran to get the word out to the AR folk.  Thanks for the reminder.  We can't be too careful.
9:42am • #12
5 Featured Posts

Maggie, No apologies needed, you're much more compassionate and articulate than I am.  You idea about sending condolence cards to his wife is a wonderful idea.  His office address is on your blog.  I don't think it is neccessary to publish the family address.  I am sure the office will relay the information. 

9:50am • #13
MAY
29
2007
I was stunned when I heard the news, THOUGHT I HEARD IT WRONG!!  My 16 year old happened to be listening with me and also turned her head quickly toward the t.v. and just watched.  For my child she never put in to perspective that there is the danger it is in Real estate.  I feel for his family and friends and only hope they put this very cold hearted killer where he belongs!!  My god bless his family!
7:50am • #14
5 Featured Posts
Thanks anonymous....it was quite a shock, still unsettling until we have all the answers.
8:09am • #15
2 Featured Posts

I preach this stuff constantly, everyone needs to watch out for themselves when meeting with someone whom you have never met before.

Thanks for bringing this up.

Gary

10:29am • #16
5 Featured Posts
Gary, If it only gets through to one person...it is worth it.  Hopefully we can reach more than one.
10:39am • #17
JUN
09
2008

Hello Bob!

Wow.... your article really woke me up. I have had over 8 years of martial arts and combat training. I have virtually no fear of a confrontation. But you know what... we cannot outrun a bullet and although it may seem remote, it can happen to anyone. You are right. I am thankful and humbled by your consideration of this subject and kindness in your response.

Thanks for the wake up call!

Donald J. Leske II / Broker
BCI PROPERTIES, LLC
Tacoma, WA 253.241.6695
www.HomesandProperties.com
www.REExpert.us

7:50am • #18
272,843 Points 7 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

Wow!  This was local.  You never think it happens in your area.  A terrible shock!

10:03pm • #19
JUN
11
2008
5 Featured Posts

Donald, Thanks for stopping by... as my dad always told me..."No matter how big and bad you think you are, there is always someone bigger and badder"  I prefer be proactive than have to go on the defensive.  Your training should help you in some situations, but your gut will keep you out of all of them. Take care be safe.

 

Chris, I still haven't heard an out come to this one.  It's been over a year.

7:13am • #20
JUN
14
2008

Thats messed up!!! I can't believe people. I've heard of this happening more than once.

1:31am • #21
1 Featured Post

Thanks for sharing Bob!  I had not heard the news before today.  It can happen anywhere, at anytime!  I've told agents in my office the same things you're saying...if it doesn't feel right, don't do it!  Some think I'm crazy but I'd rather be crazy and alive!

4:20pm • #22

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Bob Carney Licensed MD/PA Real Estate Agent

Frederick, MD

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Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc.

Address: 1512 Ridgeside Rd, Mt Airy, MD, 21771

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Access and use of today's technology has been one of my passions. I enjoy sharing information and teaching others about all aspects of real estate. From Agents to Buyers and Sellers...Information is the key. With the right information you can make the right decisions to move onto the next level. Let's talk Real estate!







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