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As a real estate agent, you often find yourself in various settings—sometimes in unfamiliar neighborhoods, alone in vacant properties, or meeting new clients for the first time. While showing homes and closing deals is exciting, it's important not to overlook your personal safety. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind to ensure your safety during showings.
1. Always Trust Your Instincts
Your instincts are one of the best tools for staying safe. If something feels off or you have a gut feeling that something isn’t right, trust that intuition. It’s better to be cautious than to put yourself in a potentially dangerous situation.
Safety Tip:
If you ever feel uncomfortable during a showing, don’t hesitate to leave. Make up a reason to step outside or reschedule if necessary. Your safety is more important than anything else.
2. Meet New Clients in Public First
Before heading out to show a property, always meet new clients in a public place, such as your office or a local coffee shop. This gives you a chance to assess them and gather some personal information in a safer environment.
Safety Tip:
Get a copy of the client’s identification and take note of their vehicle’s make, model, and license plate. This information can be crucial if anything goes wrong.
3. Let Someone Know Your Schedule
Always let someone—whether it’s a colleague, friend, or family member—know your schedule and the locations of your showings. Provide them with the names and contact information of the clients you’re meeting. Check in with them regularly, especially if you’re going to be showing homes in remote or unfamiliar areas.
Safety Tip:
Set a check-in time with a colleague or friend. If they don’t hear from you by the agreed-upon time, they should reach out to you or, if necessary, alert authorities.
4. Use the Buddy System When Possible
Whenever possible, try to have another agent or a friend accompany you, especially when meeting a new client or showing a property in a secluded location. There’s safety in numbers, and having a second person with you can deter potential threats.
Safety Tip:
Consider teaming up with another agent and attending each other’s showings. This not only increases safety but also provides additional support and feedback for each property.
5. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Pay close attention to your surroundings at all times. Be aware of exits, and never let a client block your way out. It’s also wise to keep your phone in hand and set to emergency dial mode, just in case you need to call for help quickly.
Safety Tip:
When arriving at a property, take a moment to look around. Are there any people or vehicles that seem out of place? Make a mental note of escape routes, and ensure your phone is fully charged.
6. Park Smart
When arriving at a showing, park your car in a way that allows you to leave quickly if needed. Avoid parking in the driveway where you could get blocked in. Instead, park on the street facing the direction you intend to go, and keep your keys easily accessible.
Safety Tip:
Always lock your car and take your keys with you. It’s a simple but effective way to ensure your vehicle is ready to go if you need to make a quick exit.
7. Limit Personal Information
While building rapport with clients is important, be mindful of sharing too much personal information. Avoid giving out details such as where you live, your daily routine, or other personal details that could be misused.
Safety Tip:
Keep conversations professional and focused on the property and the transaction. If a client asks for personal information, redirect the conversation back to the home or real estate market.
8. Use Technology to Your Advantage
There are several safety apps and tools designed specifically for real estate agents. Apps like Forewarn, Homesnap Pro, and Real Safe Agent allow you to check a client’s background, alert colleagues if you’re in distress, or even stream your location in real-time.
Safety Tip:
Make use of these safety tools and features. Many real estate associations offer discounts or even free access to these apps, so take advantage of them.
9. Know When to Walk Away
Sometimes, the best decision you can make for your safety is to walk away from a situation. If a client is acting suspiciously, making inappropriate comments, or you just feel uneasy, it’s okay to leave and reschedule for another time or refer the client to another agent.
Safety Tip:
Have a pre-planned excuse ready to leave a situation if needed. For example, you could say you have another appointment or that you need to grab something from your car.
ONE last thought....
Your safety as a real estate agent is paramount. By following these tips and staying vigilant, you can help ensure that every showing is a safe and successful experience. Remember, it’s better to be cautious and take preventive measures than to find yourself in a dangerous situation. Stay safe, and happy selling!
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