By Coco Clayman-Cook
In the last Blog we talked about some of the ways you can protect yourself when showing property. I shared suggestions for things you can do before viewing the property. Here are some suggestions for things to do at the actual viewing.
1. Never wear expensive jewelry or carry valuables on you. Keep your cell phone on you at all times, but everything else stays home or at the office.
2. Park on the street, not in the driveway. This seems counter intuitive, but think about it. If you park in the driveway you can easily be blocked in. Yes, you may have to run a few steps further to get to your car but you will be better off in the long run. Lighting is better on the street and someone would be more likely to hear you screaming on the street than on the driveway. Psychologically, people think screaming on the driveway is a domestic issue that is not their affair. The closer to the street you are the more likely you will get some help.
3. Never enter the property first. Unlock the door and step back. This is good business because it allows the client to view the home as if it is theirs (i.e. they are opening the door and letting themselves in) but it also is safer to never leave your back unprotected. Every room that you enter stand by the door. Let them explore and keep yourself safe at the same time.
4. Lastly, leave the front door wide open for the entire viewing. It sends a clear signal of professionalism and it means if you need to scream for help you will be more likely to be heard.
None of these safety measures is difficult or expensive but they can be life saving. Practice them any time you are showing properties and remember to follow your instincts. If something doesn't feel right it probably isn't.
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