Safety First: Essential Tips for Real Estate Agents When Showing Houses

Showing homes is a central part of any real estate agent’s job, but it can also be one of the most unpredictable and potentially risky aspects of the profession. Meeting strangers, often alone, in unfamiliar locations presents certain safety challenges that should never be overlooked. While the vast majority of clients are trustworthy, it’s important for agents to remain vigilant and take steps to protect themselves.

In this blog, we’ll discuss why safety is a crucial concern for real estate agents and outline practical tips to help prevent harm and ensure a safe working environment when showing houses.

1. Trust Your Instincts and Be Prepared

Your intuition is one of your best tools for staying safe. If something doesn’t feel right about a situation, trust your instincts and take action to protect yourself.

• Research Clients Beforehand: Always verify the identity of prospective clients before meeting them. Ask for a valid ID and verify their contact details. Consider conducting a quick online search or checking social media profiles to ensure they are who they say they are.
• Share Your Schedule: Make sure someone knows where you are at all times. Share your schedule, including the address and time of the showing, with a colleague, friend, or family member. Consider using a shared calendar app that allows others to track your appointments.
• Pre-Meet in a Public Place: If possible, arrange to meet new clients in a public location, such as a coffee shop or your office, before heading to the property. This allows you to get a sense of the client and establish some initial rapport in a safer environment.

2. Use Technology to Stay Safe

Modern technology offers various tools that can enhance your safety while showing houses.

• Leverage Safety Apps: Download safety apps specifically designed for real estate professionals. Apps like Forewarn, Homesnap Pro, or Real Safe Agent allow you to share your location in real-time, alert contacts in case of an emergency, and access background information on prospective clients.
• Use Your Phone’s Safety Features: Enable location sharing on your smartphone so that trusted contacts can track your whereabouts. Set up emergency contacts and know how to use your phone’s emergency alert features.
• Keep Your Phone Handy: Always have your phone easily accessible when showing a property. Program emergency contacts into speed dial and ensure your phone is fully charged before heading out.

3. Adopt Safe Showing Practices

Taking practical steps when conducting showings can minimize potential risks.

• Show During Daylight Hours: Whenever possible, schedule showings during daylight hours. If a showing must occur after dark, ensure the property is well-lit both inside and outside.
• Park Strategically: Park your car in a way that allows for a quick exit. Avoid parking in driveways or locations where your vehicle could be blocked. Make sure your car keys are easily accessible in case you need to leave quickly.
• Use the “Buddy System”: Whenever feasible, bring a colleague or partner to the showing, especially if the property is in a remote location or the client is new. Not only does this provide added security, but it also enhances professionalism.

4. Control the Showing Environment

Maintaining control of the showing environment is key to staying safe.

• Unlock All Doors Before Entering: When arriving at a property, unlock all doors (front and back) to create easy exit routes. Be aware of all exits, including windows, and have a plan for how to leave quickly if needed.
• Let Clients Lead: As you show the property, allow clients to enter rooms first while you remain near the door. This ensures you are not cornered in a confined space.
• Avoid Attics, Basements, and Small Spaces: If possible, avoid showing attics, basements, or other areas where it could be difficult to escape. Instead, direct clients to these areas from a safer location, such as the top of the stairs.

5. Communicate with Your Office or Team

Keeping your office or team informed about your activities is a crucial safety measure.

• Set Up a Check-In System: Establish a check-in system with your office or a trusted contact. Let them know when you arrive at a property and when you leave. If they don’t hear from you within a set timeframe, they should reach out to check on you.
• Create a Code Word: Develop a code word or phrase that you can use in a phone call or text message to discreetly signal that you need help. Make sure your office or team understands what to do if they receive the code.

6. Be Cautious with Personal Information

Be mindful of the personal information you share with clients, both online and in person.

• Limit Personal Details: Avoid sharing personal information such as your home address, daily routines, or details about your family. Keep your conversations focused on business.
• Use Professional Contact Information: Always use your professional contact details, such as your work email and office phone number, rather than personal ones. This protects your privacy and keeps a clear boundary between your personal and professional life.

7. Prepare for Emergencies

Being prepared for emergencies can make all the difference if something does go wrong.

• Carry Personal Safety Devices: Consider carrying personal safety devices such as pepper spray, a whistle, or a personal alarm. Make sure you know how to use them and keep them accessible.
• Take Self-Defense Training: Consider taking a self-defense course specifically designed for real estate agents. These courses teach practical techniques to help you stay safe in potentially dangerous situations.
• Have an Emergency Plan: Develop an emergency plan that includes how to exit a property quickly, whom to call for help, and what to do if you feel threatened. Review this plan regularly to keep it fresh in your mind.

8. Stay Alert and Aware

Above all, stay alert and aware of your surroundings at all times.

• Avoid Distractions: Stay focused on your environment and avoid distractions such as looking at your phone or wearing headphones. Pay attention to the people around you, the layout of the property, and any unusual sounds or movements.
• Trust Your Instincts: If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts. Leave the property immediately, and contact your office or a trusted contact. It’s better to be safe and cautious than to ignore a gut feeling.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Safety as a Real Estate Professional

While meeting new clients and showing properties is an exciting part of being a real estate agent, it’s important to prioritize your safety at all times. By taking proactive steps, staying aware of your surroundings, and using the available tools and resources, you can minimize risks and create a safer work environment.

Remember, no sale or commission is worth compromising your safety. Stay vigilant, trust your instincts, and take precautions to ensure you stay safe while doing what you love.

Looking for more safety tips or resources? Connect with us for additional guidance on staying safe in real estate, or consider joining a local professional association that offers safety training and support for agents.