09/3/24

Since it’s REALTOR® Safety Month, September is the perfect time to tackle the importance of security. We appreciate that you trust our teams to secure your transactions and property rights, but we want to do more to keep you safe. That’s why we compiled these tips you can use this month – and all year long – to enhance both physical and digital protection.

Verify and investigate new contacts. Knowing who you’re dealing with helps protect against physical harm and fraud, so gathering as much information as possible about new clients is extra important. Some apps and websites can help with that, such as TruthFinder and FOREWARN. You can use these tools to research prospects, confirm mortgage pre-approvals, and conduct unofficial background checks. 

Protect your public presence. Real estate is built on connections, but maintaining barriers is essential. Be mindful of the information you share in promotional materials, on social media and during conversations. Avoid revealing personal details such as where you live, places you go often or other sensitive information unless you know for sure who you’re talking to isn’t a threat.

Keep your guard up at showings and open houses. When meeting clients, make sure they enter the property first so that you have an opportunity to assess their behavior and intentions. Additionally, keep yourself in a position where you can easily leave the property if necessary. When it comes to open houses, consider bringing an extra agent or two with you. Not only will it make you look prepared and engaged, but there’s always safety in numbers.

Everyone deserves security and peace of mind. As we say at the end of many of our wire fraud warnings, it’s better to be safe than sorry. We’re always here for you.