For those of you who know me, you know that safety is paramount to me. There are many things that you, as a realtor, can do to protect not only yourself but also your clients. As we recognize Realtor Safety Month this September, it’s the perfect time to discuss safety tips for realtors in Columbia, MO and beyond.
Realtors often find themselves in unique situations, like meeting strangers at vacant homes, traveling between properties alone, or hosting open houses. Prioritizing your personal safety is crucial to protecting yourself and ensuring your clients feel secure. Here are some essential realtor safety tips to follow while working in the Columbia, MO real estate market:
1. Meet Clients in a Public Place or Office
When meeting clients for the first time, always meet them in a public location or at your office. Verify their identity by requesting an ID to ensure they are who they claim to be. This extra step can give you peace of mind before heading to a showing.
2. Let Someone Know Where You Are
Always inform someone—whether it’s a colleague, friend, or family member—about where you are and when you plan to return. Before I attend any meetings or showings, I let my family know my schedule and when I expect to be home. This allows them to track my whereabouts and ensure I’m safe.
3. Park Smart at Showings
On showings, avoid parking in the driveway. Instead, park on the street. This not only allows your clients to park closer to the door, but also ensures you won’t get blocked in, giving you the ability to leave quickly in case of an emergency.
4. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
While inside a home, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and know where the exits are. When working in Columbia’s real estate market, where homes can vary greatly in layout, understanding how to quickly leave a property can be critical for your safety.
5. Let Your Client Lead the Way
During a showing, always let your client lead the way. By doing this, you ensure they enter the room first, preventing them from positioning themselves in a way that could block you in. This is especially important in enclosed spaces like basements and bathrooms, where having an easy exit is essential.
6. Trust Your Instincts
If something feels off, listen to your gut. Realtors in Columbia, MO often deal with a wide variety of clients, and it’s okay to cancel or reschedule a meeting if you feel uncomfortable. Your safety should always come first.
7. Approach Open House Safety
If you’re hosting an open house, arrive early to inspect the property, and if possible, have a coworker join you. Keep a sign-in sheet that includes names and contact information, and always be aware of who’s entering and leaving the property during the event.
8. Take Self-Defense Training
Consider enrolling in self-defense training to feel more confident in your ability to protect yourself. There are local options in Columbia, MO to help you stay prepared.
Conclusion:
As realtors, we often find ourselves in unpredictable situations, which makes realtor safety critical. By following these real estate safety tips, you can protect yourself while continuing to provide excellent service to your clients.
In honor of Realtor Safety Month, let’s make safety a top priority for ourselves and our fellow realtors across Columbia, MO and beyond. Whether it’s meeting clients, hosting open houses, or simply parking smart, these simple steps can help you stay safe in the real estate business.