If you’re like most REALTORS®, you know that the one thing you can predict about showings is their unpredictability. Whether you’re a seasoned real estate professional or a newly-licensed agent, your time in the field can sometimes lead you into a challenging situation. Knowing what to watch out for can help you head off any trouble before it materializes.
They say an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and that goes double for safety in the field. A bit of forethought and planning can help ensure your safety during showings, open houses and travel. Start with some basics, such as:
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EXIT Southeast highlights smart precautions for agents during Realtor Safety Month in September.[/caption]Pay attention to your instincts and intuition. If a situation seems sketchy, find a way to avoid being caught alone and off your guard. Even if it means postponing a meeting, that’s far preferable to placing yourself in a dangerous situation.
When it comes to Realtor safety, consider taking advice from the professionals says EXIT Southeast Regional Owner Stacy Strobl. Many organizations offer safety classes geared toward real estate professionals. In addition to risk awareness and prevention, you’ll learn some basic self-defense tactics.[caption id="attachment_3560" align="alignnone" width="450"]
EXIT Southeast Regional Owners Kenny Lynn and Stacy Strobl encourage all of their brokers, owners and agents to keep job safety a top priority.[/caption]EXIT Southeast Regional Owner Kenny Lynn agreed and stressed local law enforcement is also a great resource. “We are very lucky to have the support of area police and we encourage all brokers, owners and agents to take advantage of the resources available while always being mindful of safety,” Lynn said.Tawny King, broker/owner EXIT Realty King & Associates, is a great example of being prepared and making sure her team is as well.“Realtor® safety is always a top priority for EXIT Southeast. Tawny is a great example of an EXIT Southeast leader who leads by example and concern for her agents while creating a team atmosphere,” Strobl added.
Remaining smart and safe while working as a real estate agent is a priority says Tawny King, broker/owner, EXIT Realty King & Associates. Partnering with Tim Britt, Supreme Lending, an interactive training course was set up with Agape Tactical.[caption id="attachment_3637" align="alignnone" width="451"]
Tawny King, EXIT Realty King & Associates, participated in a realtor safety training course with her agents partnering with Tim Britt, Supreme Lending. (Photo by Zach Harrison Photography)[/caption]“I feel many times we don’t think about the things we should be aware of when dealing with potential strangers.  This course really opened my eyes of things we should be more aware of and precautions we can take not just in our business environment but everyday environment. And what to think about if ever put in a potentially dangerous situation,” King said. “This is a great course and I highly recommend it.”[caption id="attachment_3638" align="alignnone" width="450"]
Tawny King, EXIT Realty King & Associates broker, participated in a realtor safety course with her agents in partnership with Tim Britt, Supreme Lending.[/caption]
Nashville's daily newspaper, the Tennessean, asked EXIT leaders more about agent safety in this recent story. Click here for more info.
As an industrious real estate agent, you deserve to work with a strong network of experienced real estate professionals in Georgia, Kentucky or Tennessee. Contact EXIT Southeast Regional Owner Stacy Strobl (stacy@exitsoutheast.com) to find about more about investing in your own business.
