It has come to our attention that there have been several recent showing requests made by an individual that has a scary criminal record and lack of employment resulting in a failure to qualify for a mortgage.  We had another call from an agent who showed up to a property with the potential to list it and was greeted by a naked owner who was making very inappropriate remarks.

It’s important that you have safety procedures in place for EVERY new buyer and seller that seeks your services.

How do you qualify your clients?  What procedures are you following so that someone either knows where you are or accompanies you to unknown locations? Do you only meet in a public place when first meeting?  Do you take a photo of the ID of every potential client you meet along with your agency disclosure form and send to your broker? Do you google the name of those seeking your services?  All of these can be done to protect and promote your safety but they must be uniformly applied to EVERY person, to avoid any claims of discrimination.

In all instances, we advised the agents to contact the local police.  One agent vetted the inquiry before setting up the appointment and knowing the criminal history, declined the appointment.  The other agent was concerned about safety, so she brought a family member with her on the showing, took a copy of the license and license plate and declined all showings after the first was uncomfortable. She reached out to her broker for handling. Bravo.

Did you know?

• 33% of REALTORS® experienced a situation that made them fear for their personal safety
• The typical REALTOR® reported feeling unsafe less than once a year (54%) in terms of personal safety, but unsafe in terms of personal information every few months or more often (61%).
• 5% of REALTORS® said they had been a victim of a crime while working as a real estate professional.
• 35% of men and 49% of women carry a self-defense weapon or tool.
• 53% of members use a smartphone safety app to track whereabouts and alert colleagues in case of an emergency.

Here is a link to NAR’s Safety Guide for REALTORS.

Take a look, make a plan and stay safe!