Stay smart, Stay Safe.... Realtor Safety.

September is Realtor Safety month. It's no mystery that being a realtor puts you in a high risk occupation category. Everyone you meet is a stranger but also…. Everyone you meet is a potential client. Staying vigilant and being proactive about your own safety and the safety of your colleges and loved ones is key. How do we do that when our lives and faces are blasted all over every social media  platform, every business card and every company website. Here are a few ways we found to be most effective.

 Client Identification

From the very first encounter you should be proactive in safeguarding yourself from any harm. SUre you can meet new clients at a bar, grocery store, or even the gym. However, make sure that the first consultation is done in a public space, ideally your office building, and have them fill out a prospect identification form and take a copy of their photo ID. It may sound like a hassle but if anything should happen that information will be vital! It can and should be shredded after it is no longer needed. It's going to be information you'll need anyhow if you do end up putting a home under contract for them, getting it first is not only smart but efficient.

Stay in the light

I know it's sometimes unavoidable, especially in the fall and winter months when it gets dark early.  When at all possible only show homes during daylight hours. When it's completely unavoidable make sure you go into the home first turn on ALL the lights and open all blinds and curtains. Don't leave spaces dark, and contemplate bringing a friend to stay in the car while you are showing. Just as an added cushion of protection. When you are in the home whether it be day or night always call out and point the way never lead the way. You never want to have your back to anyone, it's just not safe. 

What's the password

“ Hi, this is Beth. Can you pull the Pinkham file” …… Having a code phrase or word that you use with a few trusted colleges or loved ones that will signal distress or danger is smart when it comes to safety. You can use that phrase on a phone call  without tipping off the person making you uneasy, and it should set in motion a chain reaction that immediately gets you out of that bad situation. Sharing your location on your phone will also be beneficial in this circumstance so that the person on the other end of that phone call knows exactly where to send authorities. 

Keep in mind that keeping yourself safe isn't a one size fits all situation.  Some may choose to carry a weapon to keep themselves safe.  If you choose to do so, take the proper courses and get the necessary licensing to cover yourself prior to doing so. Always be aware of your own state laws regarding carrying protection of any kind. We love what we do and we absolutely love the clients we work with on a regular basis, but keeping yourself safe is the smartest way to make sure that the empire you are building continues to grow and thrive.