Most of us would never normally hold an event at our homes where we put out a sign that welcomed in total strangers. But this is exactly what you do for your real estate clients when you hold an open house. Here are ten easy-to-do safety tips that you can add to your open house planning. We know that real estate agents focus their attention on the tiniest details to help put a client’s home in the best light; we hope these tips will help you remember to pay attention to your personal safety, too.
Unlock the front door and know your escape routes from the house and the yard- Unlock deadbolts from your established escape route doors for a quicker exit
- Have a co-worker or friend join you for the day, or ask them to check in every hour
- Log all visitors' car license numbers and general physical descriptions
- Ensure full cell phone battery and signal strength at start of open house hours
- Keep all interior and exterior lights on even in daytime and open all the window coverings
- Walk behind visitors and direct them to look at features or rooms, rather than lead them
- Ask homeowners to leave valuables, medications, and mail hidden away
- Talk with the neighbors so they know there will be a showing and ask them to keep wary for unusual activity or visitors
- Use personal safety apps available for your smartphone
Thank you to REALTOR Magazine for the source information.
