For Sale By Owner Safety Tips

Real estate agents are taught to be alert to any potential criminal activity at all times, however there have been cases of real estate agents being attacked while showing homes. These threats are very real and serious, they should not be taken lightly. If you are a homeowner and have decided to sell your home on your own, the following safety tips will improve the security of your home showings and open houses.

Before a showing:

1. Vet buyers before they visit.

2. Remove small jewelry and money from plain view and out of the front of drawers.

3. Store away electronics.

4. Offer showing times during the day whenever possible. If it works better to show your house at night, make sure all blinds are open and all exterior and interior lights are on.

5. Make sure that a friend or relative at a different location is aware of who you are showing your home to and when you are showing. Be sure to check in with each other immediately after each showing.

During a showing:

1. Park your car in front of your home rather than in the driveway or in the garage during a showing in the event that you need to escape in your vehicle.

2. Make sure someone else is present with you for all open houses or showings.

3. Don’t lead visitors, direct them from room to room slightly behind them.

4. Carry an alarm device and/or cell phone.