Christian Real Estate Blog

Realtor Safety in the Field

Real estate agent safety has become a big issue over the last couple of years. Some agents are even going as far as requiring background checks before showing property. Although that may be a little drastic in some markets, it is still a good idea to take safety seriously. Here is list of DO's and DON'Ts from the city of Mesa's police department:

"DO take the safest and best-lighted route -- day or night -- while driving to appointments, keeping the car windows up and doors locked. Never pick up hitchhikers, male or female.
DO always inform your office of where you will be, who you will be with and when you will next be in touch. Make sure the person you are meeting knows that you've given your office this information.
DO be aware of the neighborhood in which you are showing a listing. If the neighborhood poses any possible threat to your personal safety, take another person with you.
DO allow the client to proceed ahead of you while showing the property. Make sure you have previewed the property and know all of the accessible exits. Leave the doors unlocked for easy exit. Carry your cellular telephone with you at all times.
DO establish a method of being able to relate an emergency situation to the office or a contact person. Establishing a "distress" code word or having a "panic button" in your possession to use, if needed, will give you alternate ways of alerting the office of your situation.
DON'T hold an open house alone, if at all possible. Working with a partner allows you the luxury of having someone available to call or go to for assistance, if needed, and someone to help monitor how many people are in the house. If you must do an open house alone, stay near the door and let the prospect look through the house alone. Keep all valuables in the home -- jewelry, money, guns, etc. - locked away.
DON'T host an open house at a property you have not already previewed. Know the location of all of the exits and how to contact the closest neighbors. Make sure that if you use the backyard as an escape route that there is an exit out of it. make sure all of the exit doors are unlocked during the open house.
DON'T wear expensive jewelry and, if at all possible, keep your handbag locked in the trunk of your vehicle while you are hosting an open house. Have your car keys readily available by keeping them either in a pocket or clipped to a belt.
DON'T assume everyone has left the premises at the end of an open house. Check all of the rooms and the backyard prior to locking all of the doors. Be prepared to defend yourself, if necessary.
DON'T show a property alone at night, especially if it is vacant. "

posted by Justin Smith @ 7/17/2006 09:30:00 PM