As we dive into Realtor Safety Month this September, it’s a good time to reflect on the importance of safety for Realtors and their clients. While the nature of real estate transactions involves meeting new people and visiting unfamiliar properties, there are several safety protocols that can help protect everyone involved.
At Greater Chattanooga Realtors®, we are committed to ensuring the safety of our members and the public all year round—not just in September. To help keep our community informed, here are some crucial safety tips and best practices that Realtors and clients should be aware of during real estate transactions.
Schedule Showings During Daylight Hours. Whenever possible, schedule showings during daylight. Viewing homes in broad daylight ensures better visibility and allows you to be more aware of your surroundings. If a property must be shown after dark, arrive early to turn on lights and ensure the property is well-lit. Let a colleague or family member know where you will be and what time you expect to finish.
Limit Sharing of Personal Information. In an age of digital exposure, guarding your personal details is essential. Realtors should be mindful of how much personal information they share with clients, use business addresses, and keep home addresses private. Clients should also be careful about sharing personal details and documents when visiting homes.
Meet Clients at the Office or Public Space. Before heading out to view properties, meet clients for the first time in the office or a public place like a coffee shop. This adds a layer of professionalism and provides an opportunity to verify identification and gather necessary documentation. This is also an excellent time to chat, get to know your clients, and listen to their needs. Realtors can ensure their safety while also building rapport with clients in a controlled environment.
Check for Cell Service. Before venturing into remote locations, make sure your cell phone has reception, and your eKey app is up to date and working correctly. This step is essential for accessing the home’s lockbox. Being disconnected can present a safety risk in case of emergencies. Always ensure you have access to communication wherever you go.
Arrive Early for Showings. Arriving at the property early allows Realtors to scope out the area, turn on lights, and map out an escape route in case of an emergency. Getting there ahead of clients gives you the upper hand in assessing the property for safety concerns.
Practice Open House Safety. Never host an open house alone. Having another Realtor with you ensures additional support, and they can also help monitor the property. Before locking up, check every room and ensure all visitors have left. If something feels off, don’t hesitate to call for help.
Walk Behind Clients. When showing properties, let your clients take the lead. By walking behind them, you maintain better control of the situation while allowing them to explore the home comfortably. This simple practice can prevent potential safety issues and create a professional yet cautious environment.
Secure Seller Information. Realtors should remind sellers to lock away valuables and sensitive documents before any showing. Personal items like jewelry, electronics, and important papers should be out of sight to avoid potential theft or misuse.
Trust Your Instincts. Finally, trust your gut. Don’t hesitate to leave or change plans if a situation feels unsafe or uncomfortable. Realtors should have code words or signals to communicate with colleagues and always use the Buddy System when necessary. Personal safety should always come before a sale.
As we continue to navigate the ever-evolving real estate landscape, safety remains a top priority for Greater Chattanooga Realtors®. These protocols are designed to ensure that both Realtors and their clients feel safe and secure during real estate transactions. For more resources and safety tips, be sure to visit our website at https://www.gcar.net/realtor-safety-month-2024. Let’s stay safe together. That’s Who We R®