We recently had a situation where an agent encountered a potentially risky scenario during a showing arranged through Facebook Marketplace. The agent, noticing signs that the request might not be legitimate, took proactive steps by inviting the homeowner’s father—a retired police officer—to join the showing. Their vigilance helped them avoid a potentially dangerous situation when the suspect, who seemed to target the agent due to being alone, was deterred by the presence of an additional person.
This incident highlights the importance of following best practices to ensure your safety during showings. Here are a few guidelines to follow:
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- Verify Profiles & Info: Be cautious of profiles with limited information, few connections, or recent creation dates. If anything seems suspicious, trust your instincts and proceed carefully.
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- Ask for a phone number and verify it against programs like Forewarn can help highlight inconsistencies.
- Requesting a scan of a driver’s license can also help you cross-check information.
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- Bring a Companion: Always have someone accompany you to showings. Whether it’s a colleague, friend, or family member, their presence can significantly enhance your security.
- Stay Vigilant: Watch for unusual behavior, such as someone waiting in their car for an extended period or acting nervously. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to call for help or reschedule the showing.
- Illuminate the Property: Keep all lights on during the showing to increase visibility and reduce potential risks.
- Communicate Your Plans: Let a trusted person know your showing details, including the property address and your expected arrival and departure times.
- Verify Profiles & Info: Be cautious of profiles with limited information, few connections, or recent creation dates. If anything seems suspicious, trust your instincts and proceed carefully.
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Your safety is our top priority. If you encounter any concerning situations, please report them to police authority immediately.
There are also safety tools and services available to agents to help them verify a person’s identity. Research tools that fit your business model and trust your instincts when working with new prospects. Protecting yourself and your business are the top priorities.
For more information on safety best practices, visit nar.realtor/safety or boirealtors.com/realtor-safety-resources. If you have a safety concern to share, please email me directly or call us at 208-376-0363.
