Stay Safe: Essential Safety Tips for Real Estate Showings and Open Houses

Introduction: Prioritizing Safety in Real Estate

Real estate agents often face inherent risks as part of their job. They frequently meet new people, enter vacant properties, and work alone, making proactive safety measures essential for both personal well-being and professional success. It's not just about protecting yourself; it's about ensuring you can continue to serve your clients effectively and confidently. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, 23 real estate-related professionals died from violence on the job in 2022. This statistic underscores the importance of prioritizing safety in the real estate industry. Furthermore, a 2023 report stated that 75,000 realtors reported being victims of a crime. While most client appointments are safe, these statistics highlight the need to be prepared. This article provides actionable safety tips to empower real estate agents to navigate potential risks and stay safe in the field.

Pre-Showing/Open House Preparation: Setting the Foundation for Safety

Before even meeting a client or opening a property for viewing, establishing a strong foundation of safety protocols is critical. This includes understanding your office's safety policies, verifying client identities, and establishing clear communication plans. A key component is to familiarize yourself with available resources, such as those provided by the North Carolina Real Estate Commission.

Verifying Potential Clients

Knowing who you're meeting is a fundamental aspect of safety. Insist that new prospects meet you at your office and provide photo identification and basic information such as their name, current address, work, home, and cell phone numbers. This could involve requesting a driver's license photo or using a prospect identification form. According to a 2024 National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) report, 60% of residential members have not met a new client alone in a secluded location. It's always better to be cautious. While ethically navigating privacy concerns, cautiously searching public records or social media can offer additional verification (though never rely solely on these sources).

Planning and Communication

Always share your schedule, including property addresses, meeting times, and client contact information, with your office, a designated colleague, or a family member. Establish a check-in/check-out system or use a buddy system, especially for unfamiliar or potentially risky situations. Before each showing, pre-plan potential escape routes at the property in case of an emergency. Having a prearranged code allows a broker to alert another office member that s/he is feeling uneasy with a client/customer and needs immediate assistance without letting the client/customer know. Also, remember to let buyers drive themselves; it is safer to meet the client directly at the showings, and it also enables you to schedule multiple showings per day.

During the Property Showing: Staying Alert and In Control

During a property showing, your awareness and conduct are key to maintaining safety. This includes managing interactions, trusting your intuition, and being mindful of your surroundings.

Maintaining Personal Awareness

Keep your phone fully charged and readily accessible, not buried in a purse or pocket. Pre-program emergency contacts (like 911 and your office) into speed dial. Consider letting the client lead the way through the property while you follow behind, maintaining a safe distance. Avoid confined spaces (attics, basements, small closets) with clients, if possible. Keep valuable personal items (expensive jewelry, large amounts of cash) out of sight or left behind to avoid making yourself a target. It is also helpful to familiarize yourself with the layout and possible exits before presenting it to clients. Maintain strong situational awareness and take precautions to prevent potential issues. If you're not at ease, prioritize your safety and avoid taking unnecessary risks.

Securing the Property Environment

Upon arrival, check all doors and windows to ensure they are secure. Identify potential escape routes from each level of the house. Park your car on the street rather than in the driveway to avoid the possibility of someone easily blocking your car in. Before getting in, take a moment to look inside and ensure there's nobody hiding in the back seat. Turn on lights throughout the property, even during the day, to improve visibility and deter potential threats.

Open House Safety Protocols: Managing Multiple Visitors

Open houses present unique safety challenges due to higher traffic and less control over who enters the property. Implementing specific protocols can help manage these risks. According to a recent report, 34% of real estate agents felt unsafe during an open house.

• Have a sign-in sheet to track visitors, collecting names and contact information (though be aware that some visitors may provide false information). Evaluate the property, identify vulnerable areas, and establish escape routes from each level of the house.
• Work in pairs or teams for larger or busier open houses to increase visibility and provide backup. Some say never conduct an open house alone, especially in a multi-level dwelling.
• Before the event, secure homeowner valuables, medications, and personal information to prevent theft or misuse.

Managing Entry and Flow

Position yourself near the entrance/exit for better control of visitor flow. Implement strategies to guide visitors through the property, preventing overcrowding in certain areas or unsupervised access to others. Conduct periodic walkthroughs to monitor visitor activity in different parts of the house. Hang a bell, as this can also deter crime.

Leveraging Technology for Enhanced Safety

Technology offers several tools to enhance agent safety, from specialized apps to personal safety devices.

Consider using safety apps designed for real estate agents or lone workers. These apps often include features like check-in systems, panic buttons that instantly alert emergency contacts, and GPS tracking to share your location. Some popular options include Forewarn, Real Safe Agent, and My SOS Family. With emergency alerts, location tracking, and scheduled check-ins, help is always just a tap away. Also, consider personal safety devices such as personal alarms or GPS trackers for an added layer of security. Sixty-five percent of residential members use a smartphone safety app to track their whereabouts and alert colleagues in case of an emergency.

Developing a Strong Safety Mindset

Cultivating a strong safety mindset is perhaps the most crucial element of all. This involves trusting your intuition, recognizing warning signs, and prioritizing your well-being above all else.

Always listen to your gut feelings. If something feels wrong, it probably is. Don't ignore warning signs or red flags for fear of seeming rude or losing business; your safety is more important than a potential deal. It is best to assume that your instincts are right and to take the necessary precautions. Report any suspicious activity to your broker, colleagues, or local authorities. Practice techniques often and consider taking self-defense classes to enhance your personal safety skills. Forty-one percent of real estate agents have participated in a self-defense class.

Post-Showing/Open House Procedures

Safety doesn't end when the showing or open house concludes. Taking specific steps afterward is essential to ensure your continued well-being.

After each showing or open house, conduct a final property check to ensure all doors and windows are locked and that everything is secure. Check in with your office or designated safety contact to confirm you've finished safely. Securely store any collected visitor information to protect privacy and prevent misuse. The San Mateo County Sheriff's office recommends conducting a thorough walk-through to check all rooms and closets, ensuring no one is hiding and being prepared to react promptly if you do discover someone (run!). It is also important to refrain from disclosing excessive personal information to clients, particularly on social media, as this can increase your vulnerability.

Additional Tips

• Meet new clients at the office or in public.
• Do daytime showings only.
• Never advertise a property as ‘vacant’.
• Be sensitive to the unexpected.
• Have an exit strategy.
• Avoid parking in driveways.
• Leave valuables at home.
• Keep your car in good working order and keep your keys readily available.
• Assess your surroundings and avoid areas where you could be blocked in.

Resources

• For more safety tips and resources, visit the North Carolina Real Estate Commission.
• You can also find helpful information from the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office.
• Visit the National Association of REALTORS® for additional safety programs and resources.

Conclusion: Making Safety a Non-Negotiable Priority

Agent safety should always be a non-negotiable priority in the real estate profession. By prioritizing preparation, maintaining awareness during showings and open houses, leveraging technology, and cultivating a strong safety mindset, you can significantly reduce your risk and ensure your well-being. Remember, ongoing education and vigilance are key to staying safe in the field. Take the necessary precautions to protect yourself, so you can continue to serve your clients with confidence and peace of mind. Many organizations offer safety training, and taking advantage of these opportunities can further empower you to handle challenging situations. Ultimately, your safety is paramount, and taking these steps will contribute to a more secure and fulfilling career in real estate.