Those who work in real estate put themselves in dangerous situations everyday and don't really think about it. Recently, I've found some of the most dangerous situations and how to protect yourself when in them.
Situations such as showing properties, meeting new clients, letting strangers into your car, holding open houses and even marketing can put your safety on the line. Many of these everyday tasks can be harmless. But, unfortunately, some real estate agents have learned otherwise. Therefore, take these dangerous situations to heart and learn what you can do to protect yourself.
Entering a vacant or foreclosed home
The Risk: Vacant and foreclosed homes are easy targets for attracting unexpected house guests. You can find squatters or even former homeowners who refuse to leave. Many homes like this are also prone to severe damage, which can attract wildlife and other safety hazards.
Safety Tips:
* Inspect the exterior by walking around the perimeter of the property before you enter. Make sure windows and doors are all intact. And, if you suspect foul play, call the police immediately.
* Never confront a squatter if you find one in the property. Leave and call the police. And use the buddy system when you can.
* Coworkers, family members or friends may be willing to go with you to check out the property.
* Tell others where you will be before you leave to your destination. This way, if you don't come back when you should, others will know where to begin searching.
* Keep visits to day trips. Visiting a property at night can make for an even more dangerous situation.
Meeting New Clients
The Risk: Each time you meet someone for the first time, you could be putting yourself in danger. You never know if this person can potentially be a thief, stalker or, even worse, an criminal.
Safety Tips
* Have the new client meet you at the office first. You can learn more about them and collect personal information before you visit any property.
* Always ask for identification. These days, everyone is used to having their identification checked. This shouldn't offend someone, so don't be reluctant to ask.
* Have your client fill out a customer identification form. There is an example of one on Realtor.org that can be very useful.
* Introduce them to someone else in the office. When possible, introduce them to at least one or more people in your office.
Showing Properties Alone
The Risk: You are touring vacant properties alone with strangers.
Safety Tips
* Use the buddy system whenever possible. There is always more strength in numbers.
* Stay away from confined places like basements and attics. These areas are easy for trapping. Know the selling points of these rooms and remain near the front door while they examine these areas.
* Keep behind them while exploring a home. Let them lead you around while they explore the property.
* Have a backup plan. If you feel uncomfortable, you can always have an excuse to leave or get out of the situation quickly.
Open Houses
The Risk: Anyone from the general public is free to view the property.
Safety Tips
* In your advertisements, promote security by saying identification will be required at the front door and video surveillance will be in use.
* Introduce yourself to neighbors and let them know you will be having an open house. This way, others will know you are there.
* Partner up with a coworker, homeowner, family member or friend. Two people are less likely to be attacked.
* Put your valuables away, such as laptops, purses, wallets, etc. Never leave these items unattended or in plain view. Put them in your locked car to keep them safe.
Personal Marketing
The Risk: Many marketing materials we have made contain photos of ourselves. This could attract the attention of criminals.
Safety Tips
* Never use provocative photos in your marketing materials. Full-body photos, low-cut shirts or looking over your shoulder in a sexy pose can send the wrong message to many criminals. You're selling homes, not yourself, so keep it simple.
* Be careful what you choose to wear. Avoid skirts, expensive jewelry and low-cut shirts. Wearing shoes you can run in will also be a big help.
* Protect your personal information by using a business phone number or cell phone number. Never use your home phone number when marketing since it can be easily tracked back to your home address.
Transporting Strangers in Your Car
The Risk: Many people would never pick up a hitchhiker, but real estate professionals put strangers in their car all the time. There's the risk of being robbed, you being victimized or your car being stolen.
Safety Tips
* Drive separately and have them follow you to the location. If you absolutely have to put them in your car, you do the driving.
* Watch where you park so you won't or can't be blocked in by anything. You should be able to get in and out quickly if necessary.
Staying secure and protected is about using layers of protection. Everything you can do is an extra layer of protection.
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