Self Defense For Realtors
Although you may not realize it, realtors are a group facing particular occupational hazards when it comes to personal safety. If you are a realtor, your safety should be at the front of your mind. Your personal safety is worth a little preparation and the low cost of self defense products.
Realtors spend a lot of time in unknown locations alone. Plus, they can lured to such areas by those who pretend to be prospective buyers. When they arrive alone to a vacant house, expecting to meet someone who's interested in purchasing it, the prospective buyer(s) know that they have the perfect opportunity. Meeting large numbers of strangers is potentially the most dangerous aspect of a realtor's job.
Before leaving to show a house, meet the prospective buyers at your office, and introduce them to colleagues, if possible. Then leave their personal information and the address of the home you are showing them in a location that would be clearly visible to others in your office. Drive to the home in your own car; do not offer to carpool with the prospective buyers or meet them for the first time at the house.
Even if the prospective buyers look relatively normal, you never know what could happen when you get in the house. Once inside, casually mention that another realtor should be arriving shortly, even if it's untrue. This way they will know that another person will be there soon, and you won't be alone long.
Always have your cell phone turned on and nearby. You may also want to work out a code word with your office so that you can call if you need assistance. Avoid wearing provocative clothing or expensive jewelry when showing a home. All realtors should carry pepper spray, a personal alarm, or a stun gun to thwart these attacks. An important self defense device for real estate agents is a pepper spray pen. This disguised pen can be kept in your pocket or purse or attached to a clipboard. It will not arouse suspicion, but can be pulled out immediately if your "prospective buyer" tries to attack you.
Before showing the house for the first time, take your own tour to understand the neighborhood and the home's layout, paying special attention to the exits. Once in the home with a prospective buyer, position yourself so that your back is never turned, guiding them through the home in front of you. Always ask that a couple previewing a home together remain in the same room. During an open house event, always know how many people are inside at a given time.
You should keep your personal safety in mind not only when meeting clients, but also when advertising your services. Focus on your professional qualifications, not your personal information. Too many realtors advertise their home phone number or address and publish an attractive photo of themselves; these can make them vulnerable to attacks.
Too many realtors remain oblivious to the dangers associated with their chosen line of work. Being a realtor involves putting yourself in some potentially dangerous situations, and it's important to be prepared both in your actions and by carrying a self defense device. Remember that your safety is always more important than the commission on a big real estate deal.
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