Safe at Work: Ensuring the Security of Realtors When Showing Properties

The real estate profession, marked by its dynamic and people-oriented nature, often requires realtors to show properties to prospective buyers or renters. While these interactions are essential to the job, they also pose inherent safety and security risks. In this brief article, I succinctly explore the importance of realtor safety and provide practical tips and strategies to ensure the well-being of real estate professionals when showing properties.

According to the National Association of Realtors 2021 Member Safety Report, realtors felt most unsafe when conducting a showing (41%). Personal safety concerns were also highest among females and those working in rural areas. Yet, 35% of realtors said they have met a new client alone at a secluded location.

Realtors frequently meet with strangers in unfamiliar locations, which can make them vulnerable to various security concerns, including:

   1.    Personal Safety: Realtors may encounter individuals with malicious intent, potentially leading to personal harm.

2. 
      Property Crimes: There is a risk of theft, vandalism, or property damage during showings.
3. 
      Identity Theft: Sensitive client information can be compromised if not handled securely.
4. 
      Harassment: Some realtors may experience harassment or uncomfortable situations while conducting property showings.
   
   To reduce safety and security risks, all realtors should follow the following basic safety guidelines for realtors:
5. 
      Pre-screen Potential Clients:
    •    Ask for and verify the identification of potential clients before scheduling a showing. Use established pre-screening protocols.
6. 
      Inform Colleagues or Supervisors:
    •    Always inform colleagues, supervisors, or family members about your schedule and the details of showings, including the property address and client contact information.
7. 
      Use Technology:
    •    Embrace technology for safety. Share your location with trusted contacts through smartphone apps and consider wearable safety devices.
8. 
      Meet at the Office:
    •    Initiate meetings with clients at your office or another public, well-trafficked location before proceeding to the property. This allows you to assess their demeanor.
9. 
      Trust Your Instincts:
    •    If something feels off or if you feel uncomfortable, trust your instincts. You have the right to terminate a showing or meeting if you sense danger.
10. 
       Develop a Safety Protocol:
     •    Establish a safety protocol for property showings, including an emergency response plan. Ensure all team members are familiar with and follow these guidelines.
11. 
       Avoid Isolation:
     •    When possible, avoid going alone to showings. Bring a colleague, spouse, or friend with you, or let someone know where you’ll be and when you expect to return.
12. 
       Emergency Preparedness:
     •    Carry a charged phone, flashlight, and personal safety items like pepper spray or a personal alarm.
13. 
       Secure Client Information:
     •    Safeguard client data and documents, using encryption and secure storage.
14. 
       Trust Professional Instincts:
     •    Remember that it’s okay to say “no” if a situation raises concerns. Prioritize your safety above all else.

11.    Participate in Safety and Security Training:
     •    Attend personal safety and security training classes that not only teach self-defense, but also indicators of violence, concealed weapon identification, and de-escalation techniques.

Realtors play a vital role in facilitating property transactions, but their safety should always be a top priority. By implementing practical safety and security measures, following established protocols, and trusting their instincts, real estate professionals can minimize risks and ensure that their property showings are conducted in a secure and comfortable environment. Realtor safety is not negotiable, and it’s essential to create a work environment where real estate professionals can confidently pursue their careers while staying safe.