Realtors are given a "red card" which has the contact number and company that they are affiliated with. This red card serves as an alert to anyone that the circumstances and surroundings seem suspicious. The Realtor, when with someone they feel uncomfortable with simply passes this red card and hope that someone calls to alert the company of this.
When I show a home alone I always have the prospective buyer go in first ahead of me and I keep a distance following.
I am very aware of exits and make sure I'm aware of all doors that lead outside.
I always make cell calls touching base with the secretary/admin at work, or anyone else you can reach by way of cell.
If they see you making calls they know your are in touch with people and may be a deterrent to foul play.
I think it's always good to carry a can of mace just in case, an air horn would be good as well.
If you have any good safety tips to share please leave your comments.
Patricia Aulson www.patricia4realestate.com Portsmouth NH Real Estate Hampton NH Real Estate
ActiveRain Corp. is not responsible for the accuracy of the site's content (which is written by members of the ActiveRain Real Estate Network) and does not endorse the views of the real estate agents, mortgage brokers, and others listed here.
Powered by the ActiveRain Real Estate Network
© 2009 ActiveRain Corp. All Rights Reserved
Patricia...
My safety tip usually gets someone upset but I'll share with you anyway. It can be our little secret :)
I have a concealed weapons permit and keep a loaded .38 Special in my purse. Have gun will travel safely :)
TLW...ROAR!
I don't usually make it a practice to show up alone to meet a stranger at an empty house. If I can't find someone to go with me, then I get the person to meet me at the office, and provide I.D, which we keep a copy of.
If this is absolutely not possible, and I have to meet them at the house, I will ask for their ID and make a phone call, leaving their ID information and car license plate number. If they have nothing to hide, they won't get upset. They, in fact, will be very understanding.
Sometimes, depending on the location of the house, and especially if the house is vacant, I will set up a time to show the home to EVERYONE at the same time (they can pretend they're at an open house, and I feel safer with lots of people there). I will tell all the callers interested in viewing it, that I will be showing it on Wednesday, between 5 and 6 p.m (or whatever). If that doesn't work for them, they are welcome to call another REALTOR.
A loaded weapon can also be turned against you, so I'm not sure that's the way to go. :)
Way to go.....I'll have to think about that idea. Have you ever had to use it?? Curious
Sylvia, good tips that's for sure. Thanks for commenting and for the good ideas.