Simple precautions for the cautious agent

Real estate isn't exactly as entertainingly hazardous a profession like ice road trucking, but it does have its share of incidents like every other seemingly mundane job. This tragic article shows that even in our day in age, incidents happen that bely the apparently riskless nature of our work. Let's face it, active realtors will probably meet with more strangers in unsecure locations than an undercover cop. At Century 21 Adobe, we always keep a priority on our agents' safety so we've discussed the dangers and necessary precautions in our office meeting, but we can't limit our concern to just our employees. Here are some simple precautions you can take to ensure that your real estate success isn't hindered by any unfortunate occurences.

1) Communication: Keep your cell phone on you and adequately charged at all times. Make sure you check in with your office prior to an open house and that someone or several someones know where you're supposed to be. Tell neighbors in the area of your open house so they may also be a passive lookout for your safety. Smart realtors will also take this as an opportunity to market themselves to new prospects.

2) Reconnaissance: Before letting strangers enter a home, go in first yourself to make sure all windows and doors are properly closed and, especially in vacant houses, it hasn't been taken up by squatters, as a surprising number of agents in our office have complained about. If these pests looking for a free roof are present, do not attempt to reason with or remove them yourself, but rather call the local authorities. Like the bear in its den, squatters can be rather vicious if they are approached in their makeshift habitat, especially if startled from sleep.

3) Secure the Area: Make sure to call the current owners to prepare for the visit by hiding away all cash, valuables, weapons, and prescription drugs. One of our agents has an experience of over $25,000 worth of diamond jewelry being stolen from an open house while it was vulnerably lying out on a counter. Also make sure to close and lock all windows and doors at the conclusion of the open house.

4) Personal Precautions: Taking a hint from Jason Bourne, allow clients to walk in front of you at all times and never leave yourself cornered in a room without an escape route. If two groups arrive at the same time, make one wait outside while you show around the other. Having people wandering around is when mischief is most likely to happen. If you feel the necessity, carry pepper spray on your person as an additional defense.

With these simple steps, you can ensure your personal safety, leaving you to focus on your sellilng success.

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