The Dangers of Selling Real Estate
The mere nature of the real estate business puts agents at risk on a daily basis. REALTORS® are a prime target for criminals because even moderately successful agents are usually well-dressed and drive a newer model car. That’s exactly what led to the unfortunate murder of an Andover, Mass. REALTOR® . Her attacker admitted he was jealous of her lifestyle, and stole her car, killing her at a vacant property in the process.
These are frightening statistics which highlight the importance of taking safety precautions in your work. The very nature of showing real estate can be risky, for both men and women. You can reduce your exposure to assault by following some common sense safety tips we have compiled from crime victims and real estate associations from across the country.
In researching the hundreds of articles and news stories written about this subject, we found in nearly every assault the victim could have done something to prevent the incident. Survivors tell us what they would have done differently if they were given the chance. In most cases, doing the following three things could have made a difference. These are things you can do on your own, even if your office does not have a formal safety program:
1. Identify the person you are working with before you join him/her alone, in a car or a house. Copy his/her driver’s license!
2. Always carry your cell phone, program 911 into speed dial, and don’t hesitate to call for help.
3. Trust your instincts.
1. Tips for Showing Commercial Sites (1)
Managing and showing commercial properties may be one of the most potentially dangerous careers in real estate. You’re typically showing a vacant property to a prospective customer, and may be far from other people and buildings, putting you in a vulnerable position.
Here are several steps you can take to protect yourself before you set foot on the property:
Communication plays a vital role when you’re showing vacant property. Know who you are dealing with. Insist that you have information recorded both at the office and with you about the client.
Notify a colleague of your schedule and whereabouts.
Be sure your cell phone is serviceable in the area in which you are showing the property.
When the property is vacant, be aware of the time of day you are showing it. Showing a property at dusk or after dark, with no electricity on in the space you are showing, is not advisable.
What you carry with you while showing a property or hosting an open house—for example, a charged cell phone—could help you avoid any number of potentially dangerous situations.
Three Things to Carry with You
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Have your cell phone with you at all times. Have emergency numbers pre-programmed on speed dial.
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If possible, carry your wallet, keys and other valuables with you, or in an inside pocket rather than your purse. Your purse should be used to carry hairbrush, make-up, etc.
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Carry credit cards and checks instead of cash—and carry only the cards you’ll be using. Maintain a record of all account numbers safely at home.
And what you leave securely at your home or office could limit your losses from theft. Here is an outline of what to bring with you during your workday, and what to leave safely behind.
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A purse. If possible, don’t carry a purse at all. If you can’t do without a purse, carry a shoulder bag securely between your arm and body. Better yet, carry a purse worn over the shoulder, but under your coat.
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Large amounts of money. The first rule is to limit your losses.
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Unnecessary valuables. This includes expensive jewelry and electronic equipment.
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A lethal weapon. It could be used against you. Read more
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