There are many safety issues currently that REALTORS® have to consider and there are many precautions. Here is a snapshot and what all REALTORS® should know and follow for your clients’ and yours safety.
Safety on the Job
- Get to know your clients
- Always conduct the first meeting at the office where others can see you and your clients
- Ask questions about your clients and listen carefully to their answers
- Trust your instincts. If you are uncomfortable with their answers then meet again with another agent or affiant if available.
- Use common sense with how you dress as not to give the wrong impression.
- Limit the documents or personal information that is on your marketing advertisements
Safety at Open Houses
- Always let someone know, whether at home and/or the office, when you are showing or working with a client.
- Ask your sellers to put their valuables safely out of view for showings.
- Develop an action plan.
- When guests arrive be cautions of your surroundings. Let the guests see the home, while you safely conduct the showing from behind the clients. Always be at a door way so you can exit at any time.
- Have your cell phone and any keys with you for immediate exit.
Safety on the Computer
- Take steps to defend your computer from viruses and hackers
- Never respond to emails that want your personnel information.
- Only shop on secure websites.
Bottom line on REALTOR® Safety
- If you can, attend a self-defensive class
- Always check your surroundings when you reach your destination. Go to the neighbors and let them know that you will holding the open house.
- Keep an emergency kit in your car.
- Avoid walking alone
- Carefully consider your “flight or fight” situations.
- Always carry your cell and keep it charged, along with your keys.
- Never give your personal information to strangers
- Create a distress code so any one will know you are in danger.
- Always look at your surrounding when you are arriving or leaving your car.
For more information on safety, go to the CAR website REALTOR® Safety.
Prepared by Cindi Shutt