With open houses once again gaining in popularity, some real estate consultants are wary of the risk of theft or even worse, their own safety. Take the following precautions to ensure that you and your partner (yes, you should always work in pairs) are safe at the open house, and to prevent any vandalism to the occupant's personal items.
For real estate agents hosting open houses, take precautions to ensure your safety!
Preparing for the Open House
- Schedule the open house during daylight hours only. During the winter, this means closing before 5 pm because it gets dark early.
- Always schedule a team of at least 2 people at the open house. Ask your local mortgage lender, another vendor, apprentice, or spouse or accompany you.
- Make sure that your cell phone is fullly charged. Program emergency phone numbers into your phone.
- Check in with your spouse or buddy to let him/her know where you plan to be, and what times you will be there.
Setting up the Open House
- Call your spouse or buddy to let him/her know you are in the house safely. Make sure your phone has a strong signal. If not, use a landline.
- Open all blinds / curtains and turn on all the lights so the house is not dark.
- Become familiar with your environment. Make a mental note of potential escape routes in case of emergency.
- Check the yard, fences, and gates. Unlock the deadbolts and ensure you have control of the access points.
- Keep only 1 door open for guests to come in, so you won’t be blind-sided by guests coming in multiple entrances at once.
- Set up a Guest Log and require that each guest register their name, phone, and address. If you feel uneasy about a guest, ask to see his/her ID.
- Make friends with a responsible neighbor and ask him/her to keep an eye out for you during the open house.
- As guests arrive, write down descriptions of them & their car / license.
- If you feel unsafe, call your local police department and ask them to have a squad car cruise by the house.
During the Open House
- When showing the house to guests, let them walk in front of you so you can’t get trapped in a room. Stand in the doorway to monitor the guests.
- Escort 1 family through the house at a time. Let other guests wait.
- If a guest comes in and you feel uncomfortable, ask the current guest to stay there with you.
After the Open House
- Call your spouse or buddy to let him/her know that you are leaving the house.
- If you notified any neighbors, let them also know that you are leaving.
- Write a brief note to the residents, thanking them.
If you enjoyed the tips, check out our many other resources at www.OpenHouseGuideBook.com.
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