June is National Safety Month, a time to prioritize and enhance safety practices in all aspects of our lives. For real estate agents, safety is a crucial part of the job, given the frequent interactions with clients and visits to various properties. In honor of National Safety Month, here are five essential safety tips every real estate professional should follow to stay safe and secure.
1. Pre-Screen Clients Thoroughly
Before meeting potential clients, especially for the first time, it's important to conduct a thorough pre-screening. This can include:
- Verifying Identity: Ask for a government-issued ID and check public records if possible.
- Meeting in a Public Place First: Arrange the initial meeting in a public location such as your office or a coffee shop.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off during your communications, don’t hesitate to cancel or reschedule the appointment.
Why It’s Important: Knowing who you’re meeting with can prevent unsafe encounters and ensure your interactions are legitimate.
2. Use Technology to Your Advantage
Leverage technology to enhance your safety during property showings and meetings:
- Safety Apps: Use apps like bSafe, SafeTrek, or personal safety features in apps like Forewarn to alert others if you feel unsafe.
- Check-In Systems: Implement a check-in system with your office or a trusted person where you report your whereabouts and expected duration at each location.
- Virtual Tours: When possible, conduct initial tours virtually to reduce the need for in-person meetings.
Why It’s Important: Technology provides a modern layer of security, allowing for quick alerts and communication in case of emergencies.
3. Stay Aware and Be Prepared
When showing properties, always be alert and prepared for any situation:
- Know the Property: Familiarize yourself with the layout and note the exits before showing it to clients.
- Park Strategically: Park your car in a way that allows for a quick exit and avoid getting blocked in by other vehicles.
- Carry Essentials: Keep a charged phone, a personal alarm, and a flashlight on you at all times.
Why It’s Important: Awareness and preparation can help you react quickly and safely if something unexpected occurs.
4. Avoid Working Alone
Whenever possible, avoid showing properties or meeting clients alone:
- Buddy System: Bring a colleague or an assistant along, especially for open houses or showings in remote areas.
- Open House Safety: Ensure another agent or a security person is present during open houses to manage visitor flow and keep an eye on the premises.
- Client Meetings: Schedule client meetings during regular business hours and inform someone of your schedule and location.
Why It’s Important: Having another person present can deter potential threats and provide assistance if needed.
5. Trust Your Instincts
Your intuition is a powerful tool for personal safety. Pay attention to your gut feelings and act accordingly:
- Listen to Red Flags: If you feel uneasy about a client or situation, take steps to protect yourself, such as rescheduling or relocating the meeting.
- Set Boundaries: Don’t feel pressured to meet at odd hours or in secluded locations if it makes you uncomfortable.
- Safety First: Always prioritize your safety over making a sale. It’s better to lose a potential deal than to put yourself at risk.
Why It’s Important: Trusting your instincts can help you avoid dangerous situations before they escalate.
National Safety Month is an excellent reminder for real estate agents to review and strengthen their safety practices. By pre-screening clients, using technology, staying aware, avoiding working alone, and trusting your instincts, you can help ensure your safety in the field. Stay vigilant, stay prepared, and make safety a top priority in your real estate career.
