Five Strategies To Instantly Make Yourself Safer During Showings

What are the top five things real estate professionals can do to make themselves safer during home showings?

Let's talk about these five strategies and how you can implement them into your everyday showing routines.

1. You should Pre-Screen Your Clients - This one will actually become easier due to the Post-NAR Settlement guidelines requiring buys representation agreements prior to showing any home.

Always verify the client's identity before the showing. This is easier now, because you can ask for a copy of the driver's license to fill out the mandatory Buyer's Representation Agreement required by the NAR Settlement Rules. And...if possible, conduct a brief background check using something like the Forewarn App.

Try to Meet in Public First: Again, with the NAR Settlement Rules, this would be a good time to try to set up a meeting before your first showing. It will allow you to outline your value proposition as a Buyer's Agent so the buyers understand exactly what you bring to the table and why you get paid what you do. Effective Aug 17, you'll have to have a buyer's representation agreement before you can even open the door of a home. Whenever possible, meet new clients in a public place such as your office or a local coffee shop before heading to the property.

2. You should Communicate Your Itinerary to someone close to you.
Inform Your Colleagues: Share your showing schedule and the details of your clients with a trusted colleague or family member.

You Can Use Safety Apps: Utilizing real estate safety apps that allow you to check in with your office or emergency contacts. These apps can also send alerts if you do not check in within a set time.

3. ALWAYS Maintain Situational Awareness
Constantly Assess your Environment: As you arrive at the property, take note of your surroundings. Look for any unusual activity or signs of forced entry.
Stay Alert: During the showing, remain alert to your environment and the behavior of the client. Trust your instincts if something feels off.

4. Control your Environment
Position Yourself Safely: Always let the client enter rooms first, keeping yourself between the client and the exit. This ensures you have a clear path to leave if necessary.

Should you Keep Doors Unlocked or Locked during showings? There are two different camps of thought on this. Neither is wrong. Those in the Unlocked camp say, Keep the front door and other exits unlocked while showing the property. This allows for a quick exit if needed. Those in the Locked camp, like me, say keep the doors locked while showing. This prevents other people from entering and delays people inside from getting away. Which camp are you in?

5. Have a Safety Plan
Establish Emergency Protocols: Have a clear plan for what to do in an emergency. This includes knowing the nearest exits, having your phone readily accessible, and having a code word with your office to signal distress. Basically, you should have a contingency plan for everything.

Self-Defense Tools: Consider carrying self-defense tools such as pepper spray, a personal alarm, or other non-lethal devices, and be trained in their use. I personally carry lethal weapons on me during all interactions. If you choose to do this, know your local laws and abide by them.

By implementing these safety measures, real estate agents can significantly reduce their risk and enhance their personal security during showings.