Your safety is a top priority. Stay alert and follow these guidelines to minimize risks:

Showing Precautions

• Always meet new clients at the office first.
• Have prospective buyers pre-qualified by a loan officer early on to confirm their credibility.
• Use the Forewarn app provided to you at no additional charge by the Florida Association of Realtors to help confirm the identity and credibility of prospective buyers and sellers.
• Let our staff know where you are going and when you expect to return when showing a property.
• Be cautious of individuals who refuse to share basic contact or employment information.
• Never allow a client to separate from you inside a property.
• Open houses can attract unwanted attention; remain vigilant.

Safety Tips

• Stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts—leave any situation that feels unsafe.
• Dress professionally but avoid wearing expensive-looking jewelry.
• Do not sit alone at an open house.
• Keep personal contact details off business cards.
• Have your cell phone on you at all times.
• Always drive yourself to showings and lock your car when you leave it.
• Allow buyers to enter rooms ahead of you and avoid confined spaces.
• Inform someone at the office of your whereabouts before appointments.
• Meet first-time clients at the office and ask relevant qualifying questions such as:
  • Who else will be viewing the property?
  • What is a good number to confirm our appointment?
  • Are you working with another agent?
  • Where do you currently live?
  • How soon do you plan to purchase?
• Avoid showing properties alone at night.
• Do not advertise a property as vacant.
• Report any threats or suspicious experiences to the police.
• If you are out for extended periods, check in with the office regularly.
• Use discretion when choosing which prospects to drive to showings.
• Develop a coded distress signal to alert the office or family discreetly if you feel in danger.
• Mention that someone else may be joining you at the showing to deter potential threats.
• If you feel uneasy, position yourself between the client and the exit.
• Carry a whistle, pepper spray, or personal alarm in an easily accessible place.
• Remember: No sale is worth risking your safety.

By following these guidelines, we can work together to ensure a safe and secure environment for everyone.