10 Safety Tips for Showing Property
I have heard some stories lately about female agents being taken for a ride. Some of the stories range from men asking to be shown property, just to be with the ladies for some reason or another, or others who just want someone to talk to and go out to lunch with. I ran across these Tips for showing property from several Real Estate magazines across the country and thought I would share them with others.
1. Prospect Identification Form
Instead of meeting new clients at the property, ask them to stop by your office and compete a Prospect identification Form, Gather information such as their car's make and license number, a copy of their driver's license.
2. Introduce Client to Office
While client is in the office, introduce them to one or more of your colleagues. A would-be assailant does not like to be noticed, knowing a person could pick him or her out of a police lineup.
3. Tell Someone
Always let a colleague, friend or family member know where you are going and when you expect them to return. Give that persons the name and phone number of the client you are meeting.
4. Use a Distress Code
Establish a voice distress code, a secret work or phrase that is not commonly used but can be worked into any conversation for cases where you feel that you are in danger. Use this if the person you are with can over hear the conversation, but you don't want to alarm them. The distress code could be something as. "Hi, this is Jane. I'm at [address]. Could you e-mail me the red file?"
The distress could be used if you are uneasy, but do not feel you are in danger. If you are in immediate danger stop the car and leave the area, or jump out of the car ar the next stop. Do not hesitate to call 911.
6. Locate Local Police
Preview the property and the neighborhood. Be familiar with the area so you know the location of the nearest police station. Drive there immediately if you feel you are in danger.
7. Leave Valuables Behind
Carry only non-valuable business items (except for your cell phone), and do not wear expensive jewelry or watches, or appear to be carrying large sums of money. Lock your purse in your car trunk before you arrive.
8. Park on Street
Park at the curb in front of the property rather than in the driveway. You will attract much more attention running an screaming to the curb area. It is much easier to escape in your vehicle if you don't have to back out of the driveway. Besides, parked in a driveway, another vehicle could purposely or accidentally trap you.
9. Leave Front Door Open
In showing a property, always leave the front door open wide while you and the client are inside. As you enter each room, stand near the door.
10. Be a Follower
When you show a home, always let the prospect walk ahead of you. Direct the; don't lead them. Say, for example, "The kitchen is on your left," and gesture them to go ahead of you.
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Drew Gainor
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