Real estate is one of the few professions where meeting new people in unfamiliar places is a normal part of the job. REALTORS® often work alone, inviting strangers to come to empty properties, and carry out business. Such situations expose such professionals to a litany of risks.
Because of such risks, safety in real estate isn’t just an afterthought—it’s essential. While safety considerations should be a daily part of the job, REALTOR® Safety Month exists to promote safety for REALTORS® and their clients alike.
Unlike many careers, real estate doesn’t always happen in a secure office setting. REALTORS® may find themselves showing a vacant home, hosting an open house, or meeting new clients in remote areas. These situations can pose risks such as theft, assault, or even scams. In fact, reports show that crimes against real estate professionals are most likely to occur during showings or open houses, when strangers have easy access to the property.
Fortunately, there are proactive and practical ways to reduce risks without disrupting business:
- Meet at the Office: Before showing a home, meet new clients in your office or a busy public place. This will give you an opportunity to verify both the person’s interest as well as their identity.
- Don’t Work Alone: When possible, avoid situations where you would be alone with strangers. For open houses, consider bringing a colleague or lender partner. An extra set of eyes provides both safety and support.
- Be Aware: When at a home, it is important to be mindful of your surroundings and take precautions. For example, it might be a good idea to park on the street instead of the driveway for a quick exit if needed. Keep your phone charged and know the nearest exit in every home.
- Protect Personal Information: Use business contact details when communicating with new clients. Using personal phone numbers or addresses with strangers can be risky. Keep documents secure and avoid oversharing online.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it probably is. It is okay to reschedule or walk away. Your safety is more important than any potential sale.
Your brokerage probably has a safety protocol or tips on how to develop a personal safety program. Here in Everett, the Snohomish County-Camano Association of REALTORS® offers classes and safety tools to help REALTORS® feel supported in the field. Technology tools—like safety apps, GPS tracking, and digital client pre-screening—also make it easier than ever to add layers of protection. At the end of the day, no commission is worth risking your well-being. By making safety a standard practice, REALTORS® not only protect themselves but also set a professional tone that reassures clients. After all, when REALTORS® feel secure, they can focus on what they do best: guiding people through one of the most important transactions of their lives.
For more information about buying or selling a home, be sure to work with a REALTOR®, a member of the National Association of REALTORS®. Snohomish County Camano Association of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Snohomish County. If you have questions for The Expert about real estate email us at [email protected], or visit www.sccar.org for more information.
