How safe are you? 17 essential safety tips for real estate agents
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Loading... - Roef Olinga
- 29 Aug 2022
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Being a real estate agent may seem like a safe job, especially when you compare it to dangerous occupations, such as commercial fishermen, tree trimmers or law enforcement. But performing the responsibilities of a real estate agent does involve risk, and crimes aren’t uncommon.
Showing a property alone, meeting new clients, and throwing open houses for dozens or even hundreds of strangers exposes you to a lot of people — not all of whom have your best interests at heart.
As discount and online brokerages have swelled the ranks of agents, there’s never been more of a need for vigilance and awareness of safety. Here are 17 safety tips that can help agents avoid trouble and maintain their personal safety.
1. Meet new clients at the office or in public
It’s not wise to meet a client for the first time at a property, especially if you’re going to be alone with them. Invite them to the office to discuss their real estate goals, or meet them at a coffee shop.
When you do meet them, use a prospect identification form to record all their personal information, and take a photo of their ID for your records.
2. Do daytime showings only
Take clients to properties during the day, preferably during normal business hours. If a client insists on a nighttime showing, tell your manager or a colleague where you’re going and whom you’re going with.
During the showing, turn on all the lights at the property, and open curtains and blinds to maximize visibility.
3. Do your due diligence
Before you meet with new clients, look at their social media accounts to get a sense of their personality, and do a quick Google search of their names to look for red flags. If there’s cause for concern, but you don’t want to lose a potential client, consider running a full background check.
4. Let people know where you’re going and who you’ll be with
Real estate agents don’t sit in their offices all day. They’re generally on the move, going to showings and meeting clients. If you’re not in the office, no one may notice your absence — unless you make your schedule known. Read More...
