REALTOR® Safety Matters
According to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), nearly 40% of real estate professionals have experienced a situation that made them fear for their personal safety while on the job. Stories of theft, assault, and even fatal encounters—though rare—are enough to emphasize the importance of taking precautionary measures.
Common risk factors include:
- Meeting strangers alone at homes or open houses
- Showing vacant properties, which can attract criminal activity
- Working after dark or in remote areas
- Carrying valuable items like laptops, phones, or lockbox keys
- Lack of safety training or protocols in some brokerages
Essential Safety Tips
1. Always Vet Clients First
Before meeting a new client, collect basic information such as a copy of their ID, phone number, and email. Share this information with your office or a trusted colleague.
2. Use the Buddy System When Possible
If you’re holding an open house or showing a remote property, consider having a colleague or assistant join you. Even if you’re working solo, let someone know where you’ll be, with whom, and when you expect to check in.
3. Leverage Technology for Safety
Smartphones can be powerful tools for safety. Use apps like Forewarn, SafeShowings, or Life360 to share your location, screen clients, and alert contacts in case of emergency. GPS and voice-activated assistants (like Siri or Google Assistant) can also help if you need to call for help quickly. Also using Showingtime & Sentrilock will notify your contact whether you have left the showing appointment or not.
4. Trust Your Instincts
REALTORS® are often taught to prioritize customer service, but safety must come first. If something feels off—a suspicious client, an isolated property, a late-night request—don’t ignore your gut. It’s okay to cancel or reschedule a showing.
5. Create Exit Strategies
During showings, position yourself so that you’re never cornered. Stand near doors and allow the client to walk ahead of you through the property. Know all exit points and never let yourself get trapped in basements, closets, or enclosed spaces.
6. Limit Personal Information
Be mindful about what you share online and in person. Consider when broadcasting your exact location in real time on social media, and keep personal details (like your home address or daily routines) private.
Conclusion
REALTORS® often juggle the responsibilities of sales, service, and marketing, but personal safety should always come first. By staying alert, using technology, and implementing smart practices, agents can reduce risks and continue serving clients with confidence. As the real estate landscape evolves, so too must the industry’s commitment to ensuring that its professionals are not just successful—but SAFE.
Review your current safety plan today & make one smart change.
Authored by: Denise Forman Gaines, REALTOR®