Real Estate Agents - Stay Safe Out There
Unfortunately, being a realtor has its dangers. As a realtor, you need to be aware of so many things, in order to protect yourself against an attack, rape, or assault. Each year there are more attacks and murders on realtors than in previous years.
1. You should always keep your cell phone charged and with you at all times and at least 2 self defense items (a stun gun, pepper spray, etc.) Tell someone at your office you’ll call every hour, and then do it like clockwork so that person will know right away if something is wrong. Be prepared to use coded phrases (such as the black folder, the red file) to seek assistance or prompt a call to 911 or your local police emergency number.
2. Be careful of how you dress. By wearing flashy or expensive jewelry, you might attract the wrong kind of attention. Be very careful of the pictures you post of yourself in papers and media. Unfortunately, attractive women realtors will be harassed and are likely targets.
3. Don’t put your home telephone phone number on your business card. You should think about buying Buy a voice pager or use your cell phone for out-of-office contact.
4. Never advertise a home/property as being vacant.
5. Let the potential buyers take the lead while exploring a home, with you following behind them. Always avoid going into the basement or confined areas with them.
7. Always have the prospects meet you at your office the first time. Ask them for their identification. If they seem to have a problem with it, simply reply that it is the company policy and you have to follow these rules, otherwise you will be in violation of your own company rules.
8. Always find out as much as you can about your prospects, such as where they work and what they do there. Ask lots of questions and be a very good listener. They to position the conversation in a very business like matter. Take notice and caution with a prospect getting friendly on the first call. They are more than likely “working” you to learn about you.
9. Always take your own car for showings. If you must take one car, you drive. When you leave your car, lock it. Keep your car keys with you at all times. Have a self defense product at the ready. Either in your hand or clipped to your belt. A few good ones are pepper spray 18%, and our cell phone stun gun. A personal alarm is good too, but not nearly as important as the pepper spray and a stun gun.
9. Be sure you know your sales area, and try to always preview the property prior to showing it for the first time.
10. Trust your instincts. If you’re suspicious, it’s better to walk away from a listing or a showing. Your suspicions are your inner voices. Listen to closely to them.
Julie Hogan and her husband are security and crime prevention experts. They write for publications on safety issues and self defense strategies for women and children, business owners, and home owners. They reside in Asheville,NC. They have a personal security business with hundreds of devises that are used for self protection and crime prevention. http://www.FeelSaferNow.com
Tags: female realtors, realtor safety, safety for realtors, stalkers
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