September is back to school time, the start of football season and the transition into fall but in the real estate world, it’s safety month. The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) has declared that September is REALTOR® Safety month. Being a REALTOR® can be fun, but it also comes with risks. Over the last decade or so, there have been many instances of REALTORS® being hurt, kidnapped and even murdered.
This is a good time for my fellow REALTORS® to re-evaluate their safety practices and procedures. Be aware, be smart and be proactive. So how can we apply the same safety practices that we follow to our sellers?
First, let’s talk about listing your home. Once your home is active on the market, chances are that it’s all over social media and the internet. People in your town are viewing your home online, so you need to prepare for those potential, in person showings. Strangers will walk through your home. Do a tour of your home through the eyes of a buyer and see what personal items should be removed.
The obvious things like guns, jewelry, and cash should be locked up or stored off site from your home. But did you consider spare keys, prescription drugs, and your mail as things you should hide? How easy would it be for a “potential” buyer to swipe a key when their REALTOR® is distracted or to take a prescription bottle off the shelf and slip it into their pocket? What about your mail? This can contain some personal information that someone could use to steal your identity and hack your finances.
What about family photos? While it may seem nice to display the school pictures of your children, do you really want everyone seeing them? Remember if the photograph is in your home photos, the world can zoom in and see them. So maybe clear things out and make a blank slate for your showings. You are moving, aren’t you? Time to start packing.
Make sure all doors and windows are locked before any showings and confirm they remain that way when you return. Installing a home security system can ensure you have video footage if a crime does occur. Some models and programs will even allow you to view your home remotely. Use this added feature to watch over people during showings or simply check it at night to ensure your home remains safe from vandalism and theft. If you have indoor cameras, you can keep track of those buyers touring your home but remember to let your REALTOR® know that you may be watching.
You are responsible for your pets. If possible, animals should be removed during showings. If your dog would attack a potential buyer, you will be held liable. Do your best to keep everyone safe. Do not show your home by yourself. If someone knocks on your door, tell them to contact your agent to schedule a showing. Not all buyers are who they say they are. As exciting as it is to have people interested in your home, stop, think and practice your safety.
Happy Labor Day weekend to you! Have a relaxing time and remember to do good things!
Stephanie Lemley, 2021 MBOR President
