Earlier this year, one of the local news stations contacted me and asked me for information about staying safe when selling a home. Apparently a man pretending to be a Realtor had asked to see a Lehi home that was for sale. Only after the man had wandered around the house did the family become suspicious and call police who later found out the man was an impostor.

    When you are selling a home, there are inherent risks because you are working with unfamiliar people who will be going through your house. You may also find yourself alone with a stranger in a secluded place. Without the proper precautions, your valuables could be stolen or you could risk your own personal safety.

    Because of these concerns, the National Association of Realtors has designated Sept. 13-19 as Realtor Safety Week. Along with educating Realtors about the potential risks of meeting prospects, showing homes and hosting open houses, the Association also aims to provide safety information to home buyers and sellers as well. Here are some of their tips for staying safe.

    Any homeowner contemplating putting his or her home on the market should consider that strangers will be walking through the home during open houses and showings. That's why it's wise to make sure any valuables are in a safe place, including prescription drugs and personal information like bank statements that could be used for identity theft. Consider hiring a security guard if you have valuables that cannot easily be secured.

    After the showing or open house, verify that none of your valuables are missing. It's also a good idea to check that all doors and windows are locked in case someone is planning on breaking into the house later on. Thieves will often use open houses to look for valuables and points of entry, planning to return after the Realtor has left.

    Not all prospects are who they say the are, so never allow an unannounced stranger to tour your house. Have all potential buyers call your Realtor who will set up an appointment only after pre-qualifying the prospect. Even if the unannounced guest says they're a Realtor, have that person call and make an appointment with your Realtor. It is never a good idea to show your home without an agent present.

    Refrain from talking to prospects about your personal schedule. Do not provide details about when you work or or other information that could let people know when your house will be vacant. Also avoid answering machine messages that indicate you are not at home, and do not discuss security measures with prospects.

    Finally, working with a Realtor is also a safety precaution. Realtors are experienced in following safety procedures and are trained to watch for suspicious behavior. Furthermore, Realtors will always pre-qualify prospects before ever bringing anyone to your home.

    While buyers do not face as many safety risks in the home-buying process, they should consider the safety of the homes they are buying. As you consider a potential property, carefully observe the neighborhood and look for street lighting and other safety features. Also take time to research the crime in the area. The individual features of the home may also be important as you consider safety. For example, a fenced yard, attached garage and dual-pane windows may provide additional safety.

    Regardless of whether you are a home buyer or a seller, safety is an important consideration. Home buyers should carefully consider the safety features of each home while homeowners should have a safety plan in place before putting a home on the market. If you use a Realtor, take time to talk to your agent about what safety procedures he or she will implement when selling your home. Also ask what safety precautions you should personally be taking when your home is on the market.

    For more information about buying or selling a home in Utah, visit UtahRealtors.com.