Tips For Protecting Yourself As A Real Estate Agent Chelsea Herring
While being a real estate agent may not seem like a dangerous job to have, the truth is that realtors are injured in their field all of the time. Real Estate agents work at all times of the day, often showing off big empty houses to potential buyers all by themselves. This leaves them open for easy attacks from predators, some who may want to rob them of their belongings or personal information, or others who may just want to hurt them. While it can be a risky business, there are plenty of ways to keep yourself safe as a real estate agent.
Take Control Of Your Schedule Some real estate agents are willing to meet at any time of day to make sure they can lock in a sale. While this is fair, it’s important to think about your safety as well. It’s important that you make hours of operation for yourself, stick with them to the best of your ability. If a client only wants to meet after dark and you’re not comfortable doing that, it may be best to just not meet with them at all. Of course, that’s easier said than done. If you end up meeting after dark, make sure all of the lights in the house are on and that all of the shades or curtains are up and open so people can easily see into the house.
Make Your Location Known When showing a home to a client, it’s important you make your whereabouts known to your co-workers or to someone in your personal life, especially if it’s in the evening. Be sure to give them the address of the location you’re showing as well as the name and any personal information you may have on the client you’re supposed to be meeting. It’s also smart to utilize location finding devices or programs such as “find my iPhone” so people are able to keep tabs on your location.
Carry A Legal Self-Defense Weapon While this may seem extreme to some, carrying a selfdefense weapon is a great way to protect yourself. Pepper spray is a popular safety product amongst real estate agents and can keep you safe in a tight situation. Pepper spray is legal in all 50 states, making it easy to access if needed. Firearms are also a popular form of self-defense, but the laws surrounding them vary from state to state You’ll want to make sure you do your research and go through all of the proper channels as well as get training on the use of the firearm before you decide to acquire one.
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