Realtor Safety Tips: How to Protect Yourself on the Job
Realtors often find themselves in vulnerable situations—meeting strangers, hosting open houses, and showing properties alone. In this episode, we focus on essential realtor safety tips to help agents protect themselves in any scenario. Special guest Tanner Jenkins, a law enforcement officer, shares his expert advice on staying safe while working in real estate.
Understanding Potential Risks
One of the biggest mistakes realtors make is assuming nothing bad will happen to them. Criminals don’t operate on a schedule, and dangerous situations can arise in broad daylight. Agents must take safety precautions seriously, whether working with new clients, hosting open houses, or handling showings in unfamiliar locations.
How to Screen Clients for Safety
Before meeting a new client, verify their identity:
- Request a pre-approval letter from a lender to confirm they’re serious about buying.
- Check phone numbers online using tools like Facebook Messenger, Google searches, and the Forewarn app, which provides background information.
- Verify ownership of a listing using online tax records to confirm a seller’s identity.
If anything feels off, trust your instincts and prioritize safety over a potential sale.
Personal Protection Tools for Realtors
Carrying a self-defense tool can provide an extra layer of security. However, training is essential for effective use. Recommended options include:
- Fixed-blade knives – Easy to carry and quick to use in a dangerous situation.
- Firearms (if properly trained) – If carrying a concealed weapon, ensure you have the correct permit and practice regularly.
- Personal alarms – Devices like Birdie alarms can create noise to draw attention, but they shouldn’t be the only defense strategy.
Mace or pepper spray can be unpredictable and may not work on every attacker. Instead, having a weapon that allows for immediate physical defense is more reliable.
Open House Safety Strategies
Open houses present unique risks since they allow anyone to walk in. To improve safety:
- Partner with another agent instead of working alone.
- Hire an off-duty police officer for security, especially in high-risk areas.
- Greet everyone and make eye contact to show confidence and awareness.
- Stay near an exit and avoid being cornered in a back room.
If a visitor behaves suspiciously, remove yourself from the situation immediately and notify local authorities.
What to Do in a Dangerous Situation
If an agent feels unsafe during a showing or appointment:
- Avoid letting an attacker relocate you. It’s better to fight in a visible area than be taken elsewhere.
- Use aggressive resistance. Fight, yell, and draw attention to yourself.
- Call 911 when possible or leave an open phone line with a trusted contact.
- Exit the property quickly if you feel uneasy, even if it seems like an overreaction.
Realtors Must Prioritize Their Safety
Real estate agents work in unpredictable environments, making realtor safety tips essential for long-term success. By implementing proper precautions, screening clients, and preparing for worst-case scenarios, agents can protect themselves while continuing to build their business.
For more expert real estate safety tips, tune into the full episode!
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