The Listing Presentation is a good time to discuss whether the seller will allow an Open House. If they want it, they should be given a list of Do's and Don'ts and have them sign that. You would include removing valuables and drugs when they exit the house, even for an appointment showing.

Gary, this is unfortunate but so many out there trying to take advantage. Out of the last 5 open houses I have had only one sold as a result of the open house so I am not a big fan of open houses.

More on the video taping topic.  We just got a new listing because the seller video taped and audio taped an agent downing his home to a buyer and she was his listing agent.  You never know who's watching so just don't do it. Keep your opinions out of your business 

I am glad the sellers had the surveillance cameras and caught the thief. 

This is a good story to share. Home sellers need to secure their valuables and security cameras are a very good idea.

Sellers should always secure their valuables or even better, keep them off site.  This should be a discussion that occurs between the listing agent and seller right upfront.  

Even when a house is vacant, you have to watch who enters and watch them leave, and watch them while they are inside. I like the idea of the cameras being on at open houses, and at all showings for that matter.

Yet another reason why open houses can be problematic and the agent takes on a huge responsibility. 

Open Houses can be very beneficial (though I can understand why many agents don't like them)- though like anything, it is crucial to understand the risks.

What immediately came to my mind is what seller will keep $150K of jewelry in a place where people could find and take it when doing an open house?

Hi Gary L. Waters, Broker Owner, Waters Realty of Brevard, LLC , I agree with you.  The Seller needs to be notified to hide valuables.  I have taken buyers to show them another agents listing and have seen money laying out in the open.  no sense inviting trouble.

My first thought is WHY would the sellers leave anything valuable out Gary L. Waters, Broker Owner, Waters Realty of Brevard, LLC  ? The blame may be in the listing agent not telling his seller to remove or lock up valuables. Second, when i have a high end home, i have at least 1 other agent with me. For safety of me, the home and keeping some sort of eye out too. It is another reason why an open house is not for all properties. 

Sellers need to realize to not have valuables out. Lock them up or take them offsite. Not doing so is just wrong and the agent should make it mandatory befroe any showings take place.

I remind sellers to put away jewelry, silver, medications, weapons, and anything else that is easily portable.  I also ask my sellers to put away the kitchen knives so they are not out on the countertop.