September Safety Awareness Month

Safety Tips for Showing a Home

September 10, 2024 · By Dianna Schloss

Personal safety is crucial for real estate professionals, especially when meeting new clients, showing properties, and conducting open houses. 

Safety When Showing a Home

Consider Time of Day: Avoid showing properties at dusk or after dark, especially if they are vacant or lack electricity.

Lock as You Go: When showing a home, make sure to lock the door behind you after entering and any time you move between floors or exit through back doors. This minimizes the risk of unauthorized entry during the showing.

End-of-Day Safety: After an open house, check all rooms, closets, and outdoor spaces to ensure no one remains inside.

Lead from Behind: When showing properties, guide clients from behind rather than leading them.

Project Company: Imply that someone else is expected to join you soon if you are alone at a showing.

Identify Escape Routes: Familiarize yourself with at least two exits in a property and ensure deadbolts are unlocked for a quick escape if necessary.

Involve Your Clients in Safety Practices: Inform your clients of the safety measures you take and encourage them to check their home for locked doors and missing items after a showing.

Avoid Advertising Vacant Properties: Never mention in listings that a property is vacant, as this can invite criminal activity.

Avoid Being Blocked In: Park your car on the street rather than in a driveway to prevent being blocked in and to have a clear escape route if needed.

Secure Client Keys: Use a secure lockbox system to manage property keys.

Secure Valuables During Showings: Remind clients to hide valuables such as jewelry, electronics, and prescription drugs during showings and open houses.

Avoid Using Obvious Key Hiding Spots: Never hide keys outside in obvious places like under mats or flowerpots.

Build Rapport with Neighbors: Get to know neighbors if a property will be shown frequently, as their awareness can increase your sense of security.

Register Guests at Model Homes: Have visitors sign in with their full contact and vehicle information when they come to view a model home.