Safety tools and tips for real estate agents or for any boots on ground. Safety is a top priority for real estate professionals, given the unique nature of the job, which often involves meeting new people in unfamiliar locations. Here are some essential safety tools and tips:

Safety Tools for Real Estate Agents:

1. Personal Safety Apps: Apps like SafeShowings, Forewarn, and Homesnap Pro can help verify client identities, notify emergency contacts of your location, and send alerts if you feel unsafe.
2. Portable Security Devices:

• Pepper Spray: Easy to carry and can be used in case of an emergency.
• Personal Alarm: A small device that emits a loud noise to deter attackers and attract attention.
• Door Wedge Alarm: Portable door stops that sound an alarm if someone tries to enter while you’re inside a property.

1. GPS Tracking: Always keep your GPS enabled and share your live location with a trusted contact when meeting clients.
2. Smartphone Safety Features:

• Emergency SOS: Both iPhone and Android have SOS features that allow you to quickly call emergency services.
• Location Sharing: Use apps like Google Maps to share your location with trusted contacts in real time.

1. Business Line Apps: Consider using a separate phone number for business contacts through apps like Google Voice to protect your personal number.

Safety Tips for Real Estate Agents:

1. Pre-Screen Clients: Before meeting new clients, verify their identity. Use background check services or apps that offer quick identity verification.
2. Meet in Public First: Arrange the first meeting in a public place, like a coffee shop or your office. This allows you to gauge the client before heading to a more private location.
3. Buddy System: Whenever possible, bring a colleague or an associate to property showings, especially if it’s in a secluded area or with an unfamiliar client.
4. Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, don’t hesitate to cancel or reschedule the meeting. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
5. Check-In Regularly: Inform a colleague or family member about your schedule and check in with them regularly throughout the day.
6. Park Strategically: Park your car in a way that allows for a quick exit, avoiding parking in driveways or where your car could be blocked.
7. Plan Escape Routes: Familiarize yourself with all exits in the property before showing it to a client. Always position yourself near an exit when showing the home.
8. Avoid Confined Spaces: Be cautious about showing basements, attics, or other confined spaces where it might be hard to exit quickly.
9. Use Your Cell Phone Wisely: Keep your phone fully charged and easily accessible. Avoid using your phone in a way that distracts you from your surroundings.
10. Stay Alert: Always be aware of your surroundings and the behavior of the people you are with. Don’t get too comfortable and stay on guard, especially with new clients.
11. Examples and Citations of Realtors Getting into Trouble
    1. Beverly Carter Case (2014): • Example: Beverly Carter, a real estate agent in Arkansas, was tragically kidnapped and murdered after meeting a potential buyer for a home showing. The buyer had lured her under the pretense of being interested in a property but had malicious intentions. This case highlighted the risks that real estate agents face when meeting clients alone, especially in vacant homes or secluded areas. • Citation: “Realtor Beverly Carter’s Death: Chilling Details Emerge,” CNN, 2015. 2. Lindsay Buziak Case (2008): • Example: Lindsay Buziak, a Canadian real estate agent, was murdered during a property showing in Victoria, British Columbia. She was showing a home to an unknown couple who had posed as buyers. Despite taking precautions by notifying others of her whereabouts, she was tragically killed during the showing. The case remains unsolved, emphasizing the dangers realtors can face even when following safety protocols. • Citation: “Lindsay Buziak: Realtor’s Murder Still Unsolved After More Than a Decade,” CTV News, 2018. 3. Ann Nelson Case (2011): • Example: Ann Nelson, a Texas realtor, was assaulted during an open house. She was attacked by a man who posed as a potential buyer. Nelson managed to escape and call for help, but the incident left her and the real estate community shaken. This incident served as a reminder of the importance of never letting your guard down, even during open houses. • Citation: “Realtor Survives Brutal Attack at Open House,” Inman, 2011. 4. Georgia Agent Attack (2017): • Example: A Georgia real estate agent was attacked while showing a home to a prospective buyer. The attacker, who had requested to see the house, suddenly assaulted the agent. Fortunately, the agent managed to fight off the attacker and escape, but the incident served as a stark reminder of the risks associated with showing homes to strangers. • Citation: “Real Estate Agent Attacked During Home Showing,” ABC News, 2017.
    Lessons Learned
    • Vetting Clients: These cases underscore the importance of vetting clients before meeting them in person. Utilizing tools like SafeShowings or Forewarn can help verify identities and reduce risk. • Location Awareness: Knowing the area and ensuring that someone knows your location can be life-saving. • Avoiding Secluded Areas: Agents should be cautious about showing homes in secluded or unfamiliar locations, especially when alone.
    These real-world examples and hashtags can be used to educate other real estate professionals about the importance of safety and to promote a culture of vigilance in the industry.

These tools and tips can help real estate agents maintain their safety while performing their duties. Safety should always be a priority, no matter the circumstances.

About The Author