NOTE: This article is part of the forthcoming book, the Gotcha GuideTM to Buying or Investing in Real Estate. Email us to join the mailing list for the release date.
by DeeinAustinTM
With the holidays fast approaching, it's time to celebrate with our closest friends and family. While some of us are heading out of town, others are stilling searching for the right home or investment.
I hate to be a damper on your holiday season, but felt the need to post some quick tips on how to be safe when shopping for a new home during the holiday season.
Please note that these tips aren't meant to be legal or professional advice for all situations. Think...what would CSI Miami's David Caruso do? (photo inset).
HOLIDAY HOME SHOPPING SAFETY FOR BUYERS
- Don't visit properties alone, especially vacant ones, especially at night. We let our guard down in gated or luxury communities and "nice" neighborhoods, but a vacant house can be dangerous in any price range.
- Meet at the office or in a public place before visiting the property. This may sound inconvenient, but there are crafty criminals out there. If you call on a listing with a makeshift sign or from a broker that you aren't familiar with, you may not be dealing with a real estate agent in the first place. They should be more than happy to meet in a public place since it helps you both establish trust.
- Drive your own car. It's always more safe to be in the driver's seat if something goes wrong. If the other party has a flat tire, runs out of gas, gets lost, is attacked, etc., you'd be able to go get help.
- Create a distress code. Create a code word or phrase with a friend. If you feel uncomfortable at a house, call the friend so they can reach 911 right away. Realtor.org provided an example for agents, which was "Can you get the RED FILE from my desk?"
STICK WITH YOUR GUT
Most people felt "something bad" seconds before they are in real trouble. Trust your gut even if you think you're being rude. If all else fails and you feel unsafe at any time this holiday season, immediately get yourself out of the situation. Make an excuse to end the home tour, such as a late appointment or friend who needs your help.
Note: This was originally a single post that included seller tips, but we made this a two-part series so we can provide additional information on for sellers and agents. Tune in for tomorrow's extended seller tips!
Please leave a comment if you have other tips to add to this list.
-All rights reserved © Dee Copeland 2007
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