Real estate agents have the responsibility to provide their clients with the best service possible. However, in the course of performing their duties, agents may encounter situations that can put their safety at risk. This is why it’s essential for agents to take precautions to ensure their safety, as well as their clients’ and customers’.
On Wednesday, eXp Realty offered the National Association of Realtors certification course called “NAR Safety Strategies for the Modern REALTOR” at the 2023 eXp Shareholder Summit, presented by Michael and Rebecca Straley. The goal of the course was to instill safety awareness and habits as second nature for real estate professionals.
Here are the key takeaways from the course that every real estate agent should know:
- Take a 10-second safety scan
Agents should take two seconds to scan their surroundings when they arrive at their destination, step out of their car, walk toward the property, arrive at the door, and enter the property. These few seconds can help agents identify potential dangers and avoid harm.
- When you get an apprehensive feeling, trust your instinct
Agents should trust their instincts when they experience feelings of apprehension or discomfort. Our intuition can often provide valuable insights about potentially unsafe situations. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s important to listen to that inner voice and take necessary precautions or seek assistance as needed.
- Use a smartphone as a personal safety tool
Smartphones can serve as powerful tools for personal safety. Take advantage of features like GPS tracking, text messaging, alerts, alarms, photo sharing, and surveillance capabilities to enhance your safety. These functionalities can help you stay connected, share your location with trusted contacts, and maintain a sense of security during your real estate activities.
- Practice auto and parking lot safety
Prioritize your safety while driving to showings or open houses by ensuring your vehicle is in good working condition. Familiarize yourself with the route, stay aware of your surroundings, and exercise caution when parking in lots or at properties. Vigilance and proactive measures can go a long way in preventing potential risks.
- Wear Invisiwear Smart Jewelry
Consider using Invisiwear Smart Jewelry, which takes the form of necklaces, bracelets, keychains, fitness bands, and even scrunchies. These seemingly ordinary accessories conceal a hidden button on the backside, allowing you to double-click it to instantly send a text message with a GPS location link to up to five emergency contacts. This discreet feature can quickly notify your contacts that you need assistance. Additionally, the 9-1-1 feature (available in the U.S. and Canada) can connect you directly to emergency dispatchers for immediate help.
- Use Forewarn.com before meeting new clients
Prior to meeting new clients, leverage the services of Forewarn.com to enhance your safety. By using as little as an incoming phone number, Forewarn.com provides real-time verification of individuals, enabling you to gain valuable insights and better understand and address any potential risks. This information empowers you to engage with clients in a safer and smarter manner, prioritizing your security during face-to-face interactions.
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Missed the eXp Shareholder Summit this year? Be sure to register for EXPCON, being held Oct. 2-5 in Las Vegas, where you can attend valuable panel discussions like this one.
