8 Safety Practices Every REALTOR® Should Know
Your safety and the safety of your clients should always be a top consideration. There are a wide variety of scenarios and circumstances that can create a dangerous environment. However, with the right preparation and some helpful tips, you can reduce and mitigate these risks. Here are 8 best practices to help you stay safe on a daily basis.
Only Show a House During the Day
As much as possible, try not to show a property after dark. On the occasion that you do have a showing after the sun sets, make sure someone knows where you are and when you’ll be there. When you arrive, turn all of the lights on in the house, and don’t close any curtains or blinds.
Don’t Lead Your Tour
Always present the home from behind. You can direct and point out the features of the space as your clients walk in front of you.
Always Stay in Touch
Make sure someone knows where you are and who you will be with. Leave the name and number of your client with someone at your office or a friend. You can also schedule a time for your office to check-in with you.
Be Sure to Inspect Your Destination When You Arrive
When you arrive at any destination take a moment to briefly assess your surroundings. Is there any activity nearby? Is it well-lit? Could your car be blocked in? Noticing these details can be the difference between a safe interaction and a potentially dangerous one.
Assess Your Surroundings as You Approach a Property
Just like you need to take account of the area when you arrive, stay diligent as you approach the entrance to you destination. Is this a quiet area? Are there people coming and going? Are there places where people can hide, or obstacles between you and your car?
Keep Your Phone Charged
In an emergency situation the last thing that you want is a dead phone. Keep your phone charged. Make sure that you have a charger in your car that it always have plenty of power when you need it.
Know the Layout of the House that You’re Showing
Arrive early at a property if it’s one you haven’t shown before. Check every room and identify at least two potential escape routes, should you need to leave. Also make sure that all deadbolt locks are unlocked.
Be Aware of Where You Park
Always park in the front of a property. Never park in the driveway. This will prevent the possibility of your car getting “parked in”, or blocked by another vehicle.
These are only a few ways that you can ensure the safety of both your clients and yourself when showing a property. Obviously hosting open houses and showing homes to clients makes up significant part of your day and the services that you offer revolve around these activities, so it’s important that avoid potentially dangerous situations, and use these practices on a daily basis.
