Realtor Open Houses...Danger, Will Robinson, Danger!
Realtor Open Houses are quite popular in my Metro Jackson market, so about once a week, I'll preview several homes, have lunch, and network with fellow Realtors.
Today, I was previewing homes in a gorgeous waterfront community, Palisades. At the third home, I entered through the front door and proceeded to the family room, while a group of Realtors were gathered in the kitchen area, to my right. Before me lay a huge expanse of beautiful hardwood flooring, and beyond that, a wall of windows overlooking lush landscaping and what appeared to be an in-ground pool.
While enjoying that gorgeous view, suddenly I found myself falling face-first (literally) into the family room. I heard myself scream, keys and cell phone flying off in different directions as I tried to break my fall. Thankful that the half-dozen Realtors in the next room didn't see me tumble, I tried to gain my composure and survey the damages.
Everyone quickly came to my assistance, yet I was stunned and embarassed to have taken a stumble. I looked around and realized I had entered the "Danger Zone", a sunken living room!
Now, in my years of showing and previewing homes, I've seen sunken rooms before, but this was the best camouflaged room I've ever seen. There were no handrails, no rug runners, no signs, no creative arrangement of furniture.
Zip, nada, nothing.
GIVES THE TERM "ENTER AT YOUR OWN RISK" NEW MEANING!
The listing Realtor was very apologetic that I had fallen. She knew about the hazard, because she, too, had fallen WHEN SHE CAME TO LIST THE PROPERTY.
Hmmm. THAT doesn't make me feel better. In fact, it makes me feel WORSE!
As Realtors, if you are aware of a problem, or a POTENTIAL problem, shouldn't you do whatever is necessary to prevent injury or harm to another? What if I had been a prospect and had taken a dive like that? Imagine the liability involved.
At the very least, I don't believe I would let anyone, Realtor or client, enter that house without posting a notice at the front door that says "Danger. WATCH YOUR STEP!"
Or is that just me?
On the positive side, nothing is broken, but my oh my, I will be sore for the next couple of days.
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