Realtor safety is paramount.

The recent death of Ontario Realtor Yuk-Ying (Anita) Mui has shaken the agent community and brings up the topic of realtor safety and practices. The death of Yuk-Ying Mui is not an isolated circumstance.

That’s why it’s best to know what you can do to keep yourself as safe as possible.

Putting your safety first in this industry should never be questioned by prospects or clients. This article serves as a reminder if you’re a seasoned agent and provides suggestions for newer agents in the industry.

1. Meet clients in public places first.

Before showing a property to a new client, meet them in a public location like a café or your office. Make copies of their driver’s license and send the information to your spouse, broker or business partner. Meeting in person gives you an opportunity to gauge their intentions and identity in a safe environment.

Pro tip: Make it a policy for new clients to provide identification and pre-qualify them with documentation before any property showings. If they don’t want to provide you with identification, consider the risks and pass on their enquiry.

2. Leverage technology for your safety.

There are several apps and tools designed to help real estate agents stay safe. Consider using apps that allow you to share your location with trusted colleagues or family members during showings. Platforms like Forewarn and Bsafe enable you to research clients ahead of time, share check-ins and send alerts if needed.

3. Always let someone know your schedule.

Whether it’s a colleague, family member or friend, always inform someone of your daily schedule. Provide details of the property you’re showing, the time of the appointment and the client’s information. Set up a check-in system so that if you haven’t reported back after a certain time, they can take appropriate action. With technology advancing, activating your location profile on your phone can help keep people in the know about your whereabouts.

Pro tip: Use your office or family calendar or messaging system to document and share your appointments with your team.

4. Stay alert and trust your instincts.

During showings, stay alert and aware of your surroundings. If at all possible, avoid distractions, such as checking your phone or being overly focused on selling the property. If at any point you feel uncomfortable, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation.
Safety pointers during showings:

• Always park your vehicle in a position that allows a quick exit.
• Avoid entering confined spaces like basements or attics.
• Keep your phone charged and within reach.
• Keep other personal belongings in your car during the showing.
• Enter the rooms you are showing last or stand at the door. Never go in first.

5. Limit personal information exposure.

It’s important to maintain a professional boundary between your work and personal life. Avoid sharing personal information like your home address, family details or habits with clients. Be mindful of what you post on social media as well, ensuring that your online presence is professional and doesn’t reveal sensitive information.

Pro tip: Use a business address and separate phone number for your real estate communications to avoid crossing personal and professional lines.

6. Implement open house safety measures.

If hosting open houses is part of your marketing strategy, mitigate risks by bringing a colleague with you to the open house. Post sign-ins that prospects or clients must sign upon entering, providing valid identification and contact information. Lock up valuables and never leave doors unlocked once the event is over.

Open house safety checklist:

• Have a sign-in sheet with a request for identification.
• Walk through the property before and after the event to ensure everything is secure.
• Keep all valuables and sensitive documents out of sight.

7. Utilize a safety code system.

Having a code system with your colleagues or loved ones can be a life-saving measure. Develop a simple, discreet codeword that signals when you’re in an unsafe situation. This allows you to call for help without alerting the potential threat.

8. Self-defense training.

Obviously it’s better to avoid dangerous situations, but having self-defense knowledge can empower you and give you peace of mind. Many local organizations offer basic self-defense courses designed for real estate professionals, teaching you how to react in the event of an emergency.

• CREA Safety E-Learning Course
• Streetsafe Self Defense Training Company

Pro tip: Consider carrying personal safety devices such as a loud alarm or whistle, especially when working in unfamiliar or isolated areas.

Implementing realtor safety strategies is about preparation, awareness and communication. Utilizing technology, trusting your instincts and adopting best practices such as meeting clients in public and maintaining regular check-ins reduces the risks associated with the profession. Prioritizing your safety not only protects your wellbeing but also ensures you can continue to thrive in your real estate career with confidence.