Staying Safe While Showing Vacant Homes

Posted on: June 23, 2007

It is risky to become complacent when showing vacant properties to clients or potential tenants. Selling real estate is one of the most dangerous professions in the United States for this reason, but it doesn’t need to be. Avoid becoming a victim by using these safety tips:

1. Tell a close family member or friend when, where, and with whom your appointments will be and when you expect to return.
   
2. Make sure your close family member or friend has your photograph, car model, license plate number, and emergency contacts.
   
3. Dress conservatively. Don’t wear flashy or expensive jewelry.
   
4. Take special care if someone expresses personal interest in you, initiates conversation unrelated to the unit or engages in lengthy conversations.
   
5. Observe your client or perspective renter for body language that suggests something is wrong (dilated eyes, labored breathing, nervous movement, inappropriate laughter).
   
6. Keep your keys in hand when walking to and from your car, so you can quickly get into a property or back into the car.
   
7. Ask someone to accompany you.
   
8. Have an escape route.
   
9. Identify places you could be trapped (bathrooms, bedrooms, and laundry rooms). Always position yourself between him and the way out.
   
10. If he acts suspicious, let the client or perspective renter know someone else will be stopping by at any time.
    
11. Always have a game plan and trust your instincts and intuitions.