According to a 2018 Inman survey, 9 percent of agents said they’d been attacked or threatened at work. More than 5 percent said they had to use a gun to defend themselves, while more than 5 percent relied on a cellphone application to stay safe. (Drew, 2018, 360coveragepros)
Beyond the super techy, real expensive safety products we are marketed daily as real estate agents, There are a few, simple and in my opinion - obvious things you can do to keep yourself safe.
Meeting strangers, often times, at vacant homes is a huge part of our job.
Here are 5 of the simple and free things I do to keep myself safe.
#1. Parking
Always leave the driveway empty.
It is polite to your client, and safe for you. If you were to park in the driveway, you could become blocked in very easily. Park on the same side of your scheduled property, one home down.
#2. Location Sharing
As a general rule, my location is always being shared with my sister and at least 1 of my co-workers. You can do this (on an iPhone) by going to the person's contact and toggling on the share location button. You can share it temporarily or permanently.
#3. Preparation
I love a good stiletto heel just as much as any other fashion forward business woman. But, I don't often wear them to showings. Wear something you can actually move, quickly in. When you meet a first time client, arrive early and walk home for exits if you were to need them. Don't follow the client or walk ahead of them, lead them into the home and follow behind. Never be backed into a corner.
#4. Validate Identity
If your brokerage does not have a method of securing a valid I.D. for a new client, it is well within your right and best interests to ask for a copy of their driver's license or other method of verification. If they have a hard time or just refuse to provide this, it could be a red flag.
#5. Trust your Gut
If it feels wrong, trust that. There is no client, sale, or amount of money that is worth your safety, Do not go into a home with that feeling.
I hope you can use these tips in your day to day life to keep you more safe!
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