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Mobile Area Association of REALTORS®

Safe and Sound: September is REALTOR® Safety Month

September is a special time in our industry when we come together to raise awareness about the importance of safety for real estate professionals. REALTORS® play a crucial role in helping people buy and sell homes, but often, the job comes with unique safety challenges.

The Importance of REALTOR® Safety:

REALTORS® face various risks on the job, including meeting unfamiliar clients in remote locations, working alone, and sometimes dealing with unpredictable situations. That’s why REALTOR® Safety Month is so crucial. It serves as a reminder to all REALTORS® to prioritize their safety and take proactive measures to protect themselves.

Tips for REALTOR® Safety:

  1. Client Screening: Before meeting a client in person, it’s essential to verify their identity and gather relevant information. Ask for their full name, contact information, and pre-qualify them to ensure they are genuinely interested in buying or selling a property.
  2. Meet in Public: Whenever possible, arrange initial meetings with clients in a public place or at your office. Avoid meeting them alone at properties or isolated locations.
  3. Share Your Location: Use location-sharing apps or features on your smartphone to keep a trusted friend, family member, or colleague informed about your whereabouts during client meetings.
  4. Have an Emergency Plan: Develop a safety plan that includes emergency contact numbers, self-defense training, and knowledge of nearby police stations or safe havens. Share this plan with someone you trust.
  5. Trust Your Instincts: If something doesn’t feel right during a showing, trust your instincts and leave the situation immediately. Safety should always be your top priority.
  6. Limit Personal Information: Be cautious about sharing personal information with clients, such as your home address or detailed schedule. Maintain professional boundaries.
  7. Use Technology: Leverage technology to enhance your safety. Consider using video calls for initial client meetings, and consider investing in personal safety apps or devices.
  8. Drive Separately: Whenever possible, use your own vehicle to visit properties. This allows you to have control over your transportation and exit strategies.

Resources for REALTOR® Safety:

  1. National Association of Realtors (NAR): NAR offers a wide range of resources, including safety webinars, articles, and safety tools to help real estate professionals stay safe on the job.
  2. Safety Apps: There are various personal safety apps available that can be used to alert authorities or your contacts in case of an emergency. MAAR offers Forewarn free to its members.
  3. Self-Defense Training: Consider enrolling in self-defense classes to equip yourself with essential skills for personal protection.

REALTOR® Safety Month is a vital initiative that reminds us all that safety should never be compromised in the real estate profession. By following the tips and utilizing the resources provided, REALTORS® can minimize risks and ensure their well-being while helping clients buy and sell homes. Together, let’s make REALTOR® Safety a priority year-round, ensuring that those who protect homes are protected themselves.