Safety Tips for Real Estate Agents
Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for real estate agents to be victims of crime. Criminals know that most agents are women working alone. Every year, agents are relieved of their purses, laptop, cell phones and jewelry; agents are also at risk for “stranger danger” such as rape and/or murder. Remember that safety is always your primary concern, and follow these ten safety tips for real estate agents:
- Know who you are dealing with – Qualify your clients.
- Live by the 3 W’s – Tell someone who you are with, where you are going, and when you will be back.
- Keep a cell phone by your side – Keep your phone fully charged at all times – but don’t be so distracted by a call that you miss what’s going on around you.
- Car safety – Park in a well lit area, and avoid dead end streets. Lock your car. Keep your trunk stocked with roadside assistance supplies such as flares, a flashlight, and a tire-inflation canister.
- Personal marketing – Limit the amount of personal information you share. For example, distribute your cell phone but not your home phone.
- Have a buddy and be a buddy – KNOW IN ADVANCE who to call when your instincts scream “help”. Partner with another agent in situations where you have concerns.
- Dress for safety – Dress conservatively and avoid expensive jewelry, big purses, etc.
- Trust your instincts – It is better to be “safe than sorry”.
- Have a prearranged distress signal – Have a prearranged code word to let your office know that you might need help.
- Let the customer lead the way – Scope out all of a home’s exits, and make sure your path to them is always clear. Beware of dead-ends in a home’s floorplan. Walk behind your clients. Leave doors open after entering any room. Avoid showing attics and basements unless it is absolutely necessary.
Always keep these ten safety tips for real estate agents in mind when dealing with the public.
Roger Martin