Any profession that involves direct contact with the public involves a certain degree of risk. As a real estate agent, you face real (but rare) dangers. Your safety should always be your priority, and it’s ours as well. Today, let’s discuss practical steps you can take to step up your safety practices in each of your interactions with clients.

Pre-qualify and Photocopy a Photo ID

When you receive an inquiry from a potential client, or snag a client through your own efforts, it’s important that you check Facebook, LinkedIn, or Google to ensure that they’ve given you their correct name.

It’s also true that in today’s fiercely competitive seller’s market, there’s no benefit in showing properties to clients who aren’t pre-qualified for a home loan. This step serves a dual purpose, too; by requiring potential clients to show you their approved status with a home lending institution, you’ll also have proof that this is a serious client who isn’t looking for an opportunity to cause you harm.

Before you leave the office to show a home, be sure you have a copy—either scanned or photocopied—of your client’s photo ID. Make sure each client is aware that their ID is on file in your office. This way, there’s no chance of them harming you without the office knowing immediately which client you were last assisting.

Trust Your Gut Instincts

As this book so eloquently explains, we each have gut instincts that whisper clues when we’re in danger. If someone makes you feel as though something’s a bit off, trust yourself. Your subconscious is likely picking up on important cues, even if you can’t quite put your finger on what’s wrong. 

If you find yourself in this situation, call your office, your partner, or your own voicemail, and leave a message with your name, the current time, your location, and the client you’re with. Explain that you’ll call to check in when you’re finished with your appointment. Make sure your client sees and hears you make this call. This simple step can help keep you safe!

If someone gives you nothing but truly bad vibes, trust yourself and exit the situation. Excuse yourself with a polite reason, then firmly and confidently leave. There are more clients out there, more opportunities, and more money to be earned another day. You, however, are irreplaceable, and your safety must always come first.

Set a Safe Schedule

Ensure that all prospective clients know your availability by including your schedule on all traditional and digital marketing – be sure to post your hours on your social media accounts, too.

Even if you are comfortable working after dark, try to keep the bulk of your showings within daylight hours. While many of your clients may work during the day, it’s just not safe to meet someone for the first time late at night in an empty house. Try to schedule appointments on the weekends or early evenings if necessary.

Communicate Continuously (Share Your Schedule)

One of the most natural and easy ways to stay safe should be incorporated into your daily work as an agent. Each agent within the same office should let the others know where they are all at times. Whether you’re showing an open house, meeting with clients, or hanging doorknob fliers, let someone know.

You may choose to share a Google Calendar or Microsoft Outlook with each other or create a shared text thread in which you share map pins and client names. You may also choose to snap photos of client IDs and include them in texts or emails to each other.

Take Safety Classes

Taking basic self-defense classes can go a long way toward giving you a sense of confidence and security. While the moves themselves are helpful, it’s also true that the “don’t mess with me” air given off by a confident person is inherently helpful in repelling would-be attackers.

Consider a CCW

In Tennessee, it’s not unusual for realtors to pursue training to carry a concealed weapon. There are excellent options for very small weapons that won’t give clients cause for concern yet can protect you in dangerous encounters.

If you do choose to obtain your CCW permit, be sure to train carefully before you do carry a weapon. Continue to train over time, as well. A person who is poorly trained with their weapon is a danger to themselves and others, which wholly defeats the intent of self-defense through CCW.

Are you leery of guns, or have a reason not to opt for a CCW? Pepper spray may be more your speed. Carry it with you at all times, learn how to use it effectively and safely, and it can be a powerful tool in your kit. 

Partner Up

Are you new to real estate? Partner up with another realtor and learn best safety practices from someone with experience. There’s safety in numbers. If you’re heading into an area you’re unsure about, or if you know there’s a higher crime rate, bring company so there’s someone to watch your back.

Move With Awareness at All Times

When you arrive at a home to meet a client, park where you cannot be blocked in. This may mean parking down the street, but it’s worth it—even in the rain.

Always keep your eyes peeled. Make sure your client is in front of you at all times. You should be the one closest to the exit; allow your client to wander the home on their own while you remain near the door. You’re available if they have questions, but you shouldn’t put yourself in a position where you could be trapped within a room, basement, or garage.

For extra safety, extend the deadbolt or door latch to ensure that the front door cannot be closed behind you.

Are you chauffeuring a client? Ask them to sit in the front seat with you. Don’t allow someone to seat themselves directly behind you where you cannot see them.