It’s like a scene from a horror flick: A Realtor shows a home on the market only to be attacked by a criminal with malicious intent. It sounds like it could be fictional, but this scenario is very real.
Realtor Magazine has reported on the attacks and cited instances where masked men attacked an unsuspecting agent with pepper spray and another where an agent was held against his will, tied to a chair, and robbed at gunpoint. The police force has dubbed these assaults during open houses as crimes of opportunity, which can be defined as a crime that’s committed without forethought or planning. According to a National Association of Realtors survey, nearly a quarter of the respondents noted that they had experienced an unsafe or harassment situation while showing a home.
These crimes can happen in any neighborhood across the U.S., so if you’re showing a home, protect yourself by following these safety measures.
Get to Know the Buyer
Take some time to get to know the buyer. The Resist Attack Foundation advises against meeting potential buyers at the home for the first time. Instead, meet them in a populated area and if you can, introduce them to a colleague. It’s recommended to make a copy of their driver’s license during the initial meeting. If they give you any pushback about your request, that should raise a red flag.
Install Home Security
Most criminals are deterred by the presence of a surveillance system, so install a home surveillance system to further ensure your safety. By installing cameras or video recording devices in and outside of the home, you can decrease your risk of an attack.
Lorex Technologies offers wireless security systems, HD camera systems, and IP camera systems that can be accessed directly from a mobile device. For serious buyers, these features will also be an added benefit to purchasing the home.
Carry Pepper Spray
There’s a reason why pepper sprays are one of the most popular self-defense tools: They work. Pepper spray comes disguised in many forms, from keychains and pepper spray guns, to lipstick tubes and professional-looking pens. Spraying the assailant during an attack with a non-deadly pepper spray solution may give you to opportunity to get away and call the authorities.
Position Yourself Appropriately
The Washington Real Estate Safety council suggests planning an escape route before showing the home. They also recommend leaving the doors and windows open and walking behind potential buyers throughout the home, and the Washington Real Estate Safety Council strongly advises avoiding the basement and attic areas.
Attacks can happen in a matter of seconds, so take the time to prepare for the worst ahead of time. Remember to always position yourself between an exit and the potential buyer.
Use the Buddy System
Ask a colleague to assist as you show the home. If your ally cannot be present, at least make sure that someone knows that you’re conducting an open house, and check in with that person periodically so that he or she knows you’re safe.
