After leaving the RCMP over five years ago I entered a new profession, real estate. Thinking I could put on lipstick and nice clothes, go out for meals, show homes and negotiate for my clients, real estate seemed like a dream job. Within a few weeks some of the ladies in my office were telling me about a man who would come to their open houses at the very end, stand there nervously, refuse to take his shoes off, and then not leave in an appropriate time. I, in my overly confident manner, suggest to these Realtor® that they tell this man to get the f&&* out of the house; as he was obviously not there for real estate purposes. Driving by other open houses or their offices, this fellow was getting around. We had an office conversation about my shock and awe with the fact that the realtors did not know what to do to make themselves safe; outside of having their husbands drive by. This was no plan in my mind. A step in the right direction, but they need more information.
Real estate agents are vulnerable by the nature of their business. I had no idea about this. At times receiving a call from a stranger, “hey I found you online can you come out to the middle of nowhere and show me a property.” or two unknown males: “How about getting on a ferry with me and my friend to show us that big farm on Lasqueti island.” See the pattern? Most requests are legitimate, but where is the protection or planning for safety?
Last year I participated on a SME - as a subject matter expert in safety for our company. The next day a female agent called and told me that after our meeting she was called by an unknown male wanting her to come out and list his home. She took my advice, slowed it down, and googled the male. It turns out he had just finished a sentence for killing his ex-girlfriend. I said, “ well he may need to sell his house, but at least you now know that you can make a decision if you wish to proceed.” This gave her the option to make choices, rather than run blindly to the business.
My motto is that there is plenty of business for everyone, so don’t rush unnecessarily. A couple of tips I offer to agents are:
Slow it down. Vet your potential clients by asking some questions, searching open source on-line platforms. Ask the client to meet you at the office first or at a coffee shop. Then you can get a feel for one another. Get to know them a bit better.
Know where you are going. Rural? High density? Night time? Angry tenant occupied? Plan for entry, exit, parking.
It is ok to tell clients that you do not know them and you need to ensure your personal safety. Ask them to tell you more about them. Anyone who has an issue with your personal safety is not someone you want to work with.
Go in pairs. Tell neighbours you are hosting an open house. Ask friends to stop by an open house.
How to risk assess.
The list goes on...
In November I will be presenting a Realtor® safety course at the VIREB board office. I am hoping men and woman alike sign up. There is valuable info for everyone. Even though, there is no self-defence taught on the course, maybe I could use one of you for a demonstration. Be safe out there.. and never hesitate to reach out to me or anyone else for a second opinion or a little back up.