Real Estate Agent Safety Tips from San Mateo County Sheriff

The San Mateo County Sheriff's office provided SAMCAR members with the following list of 20 Real Estate Agent Safety recommendations:

1. Meet in Public Places: when meeting new clients or prospects for the first time, arrange the initial meeting in a public location such as your office or a coffee shop.

2. Verify Client Identity: Request identification and verify client identity information before showing properties to unfamiliar clients.

3. Careful with Personal Information: Refrain from disclosing excessive personal information to clients, particularly on social media, as this can increase your vulnerability.

4. Inform Colleagues: Inform colleagues or family members about the specifics of your meetings, including client's name, contact information, and the meeting location.

5. Scout Locations Early: Prior to meeting someone in a neighborhood, ensure you're familiar with the area by checking it out beforehand.

6. Keep Phon in Hand: Keep your phone readily accessible with an emergency contact on speed dial, and ensure that it is charged at all times.

7. Keep Client in Sight: Walk behind your clients. This approach enables them to feel a sense of ownership over the potential purchase and allows you to maintain a safe distance.

8. Pre Program Essential Numbers: Ensure that you have important contacts saved in your cell phone, including emergency contacts, roadside assistance, 911, your office, and the Sheriff's Office phone numbers.

9. Take a Self Defense Class: Consider taking self-defense classes to enhance your personal safety skills. Practice techniques often.

10. Trust your Gut: If a situation or a client doesn't feel right, trust your instincts and take necessary precautions.

11. Remain Diligent: Relying on the through "I hope it doesn't happen to me" is not a sufficient self-protection strategy.

12. Familiarize with Properties: When visiting a new property, make sure to acquaint yourself with its layout and possible exits before presenting it to clients.

13. Buddy up: Collaborate with a couple of agent friends and accompany one another during initial meetings, showings, open houses, door-knocking, and any other situations where you might interact with new people.

14. Be Aware: Maintain strong situational awareness and take precautions to prevent potential issues. If you're not at ease, prioritize your safety and avoid taking unnecessary risks.

15. Use a safety App: Find available apps that are specifically designed to protect real estate agents. You can visit the National Association of Realtors for more information.

16. Establish an Office Code Word: You can use the team "red file" or "house is hot." The concept is to employ a recognizable word or phrase that signifies "I'm in trouble" without alerting the individuals you're with.

17. Let buyers drive themselves: It is safer to meet the client directly at the showings, and if also enables you to schedule multiple showings per day.

18. Don't Get Blocked In: During showings and open houses, it's advisable to park on the street rather than in the driveway, as this prevents the possibility of someone easily blocking your car in.

19. Car Safety: Be sure to lock your car during showings and open houses. Before getting in, take a moment to look inside and ensure there's nobody hiding in the back seat.

20. Closing Strong: When closing an open house, conduct a thorough walk-through to check all rooms and closets, ensuring no one is hiding. Be prepared to react promptly if you do discover someone (run!).

Source: San Mateo County Sheriff's office | www.smcsheriff.com | Non-emergency (650) 363-4911