September is recognized as REALTOR® Safety Month, a time to come together to raise awareness about the potential risks and challenges REALTORS® face while serving clients. With open houses, property showings and meeting unfamiliar individuals, it's imperative for real estate agents to prioritize their personal safety.
With the tips below, Missouri REALTORS® can equip themselves with strategies and best practices to ensure their safety and wellbeing while performing their professional duties.
Pre-Screen Clients: Before meeting clients in person, conduct thorough background checks and gather essential information about them. This can help identify any red flags before interactions.
Inform Colleagues or Family: Always let someone know your whereabouts and schedule when meeting clients or visiting properties. Regular check-ins can provide an added layer of security.
Buddy System: Whenever possible, bring a colleague or assistant along to showings or meetings. Having someone else present can deter potential threats.
Trust Your Instincts: If a situation feels uncomfortable or unsafe, trust your instincts and remove yourself from it. Your well-being should always take precedence.
Use Technology: Leverage technology tools such as smartphone apps that can share your location in real-time with trusted contacts. These apps can be invaluable in emergency situations.
Property Assessments: Before entering a property, assess the surroundings for potential hazards and ensure you have an escape route planned.
Emergency Training: Consider enrolling in self-defense classes or safety workshops. Being equipped with basic self-defense skills can boost your confidence and preparedness.
Secure Documentation: Keep client information secure and be cautious about sharing personal details. Use secure platforms for communication and document storage.
Network and Support: Learning from others' encounters can help you better prepare for potential risks.
REALTOR® Safety Month isn't just a campaign; it's a collaborative effort among industry stakeholders to ensure the well-being of real estate professionals. By following these safety tips and promoting awareness, both agents and clients can contribute to a safer and more secure real estate environment. As September unfolds, let's reflect on the importance of REALTOR® safety and work together to make every real estate transaction a secure and positive experience for everyone involved.
For more information, visit https://www.nar.realtor/safety. They offer trainings, webinars, resources and more to build out your safety strategies. We’ll share NAR Safety resources all month long, so keep an eye out.