Issuu

SHORE AHA CLUB MEETING

MARCH - 2025

HOSTED BY:

Helen-Ann Lloyd

FEATURED SPEAKERS:

Scott Deputy

Thomas “TJ”

Hildebrand

REALTOR® Safety & Self-Defense

Welcome to the Shore AHA Club eBook for March's edition on REALTOR® Safety & Self-Defense. This session, led by Scott Deputy, a 3rd Degree Black Belt, REALTOR®, and NAR Safety Committee Member, focused on real-world safety strategies, smart tech tools, and hands-on self-defense techniques to help agents navigate potentially risky situations.

This guide explores safety challenges and provides actionable strategies to mitigate risks, from client verification to technology This knowledge can potentially save your life

Throughout this eBook, you'll discover:

1 Why REALTOR® safety should be a top priority for brokerages and individual agents

2 How to implement proactive business practices that enhance personal security

3 Essential technology tools that serve as virtual safety partners

4 Practical self-defense techniques specifically tailored for real estate scenarios

5 Detailed strategies for safely conducting open houses and listing appointments

Remember, prioritizing your safety isn't being paranoid it's being professional. Join us as we explore comprehensive safety practices that integrate seamlessly into your daily business operations

Why REALTOR® Safety Matters

Real estate agents regularly meet strangers in vacant homes, conduct open houses alone, and work outside of traditional office settings, making them vulnerable to risks. According to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) Safety Survey, over 20% of agents report feeling unsafe during showings or meetings with clients.

The real estate profession presents unique safety challenges that other industries simply don't face Agents often:

Meet new clients with limited pre-screening or verification

Show vacant properties in potentially isolated locations

Advertise their photos, contact information, and schedules publicly

Work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends

Travel alone to unfamiliar neighborhoods or properties

Recent industry statistics highlight concerning trends:

33% of REALTORS® have experienced a situation that made them fear for their personal safety

44% of female agents and 25% of male agents carry self-defense weapons

39%

Only of real estate offices have standard procedures for agent safety

56% of REALTORS® have used their smartphone to send distress notifications when feeling unsafe

The consequences of overlooking safety can be severe ranging from property theft and identity fraud to physical assault and worse. High-profile cases of violence against real estate professionals have repeatedly demonstrated that threats are real and present, regardless of market, location, or experience level

By implementing safety protocols and leveraging technology, agents can reduce risks and maintain professionalism in every transaction. Cultivating a culture of safety awareness doesn't just protect individual agents it strengthens the entire brokerage, builds client trust, and ultimately supports a more sustainable career in real estate

Proactive Business Practices for Agent Safety

Implementing these safety protocols doesn't just protect you it demonstrates professionalism to your clients and builds confidence in your business practices These strategies can be seamlessly integrated into your daily operations without compromising client service.

Screen Every Client Before Meeting

Require pre-qualification before in-person showings to verify financial capability and establish legitimacy

Request valid proof of funds before booking appointments to ensure clients are serious prospects

Use public records & social media to verify client details and establish digital footprint. Create a standard questionnaire for all new clients to gather essential information consistently.

Document all interactions and keep detailed records of communication with potential clients.

Set Ground Rules & Expectations

Meet clients in public places first (brokerage office, coffee shop, etc.) to establish rapport in a safe environment

Never rush to meet an unverified client prioritize your safety over potential commission

Create an intake process: Apply the same security measures for every client without exception

Clearly communicate your business procedures to clients from the beginning to set professional boundaries

Develop a script explaining why these safety measures benefit both parties in the transaction.

Prepare Properties Strategically

Arrive early to showings to scout exits and potential safety concerns before clients arrive.

Keep doors unlocked during showings and identify all possible exits upon entering.

Position yourself so clients never block your path to an exit during property tours.

Consider bringing a colleague for first-time showings with new clients or in vacant properties

Park your vehicle in a position that cannot be blocked in by other cars for quick departure if needed

Technology as a Safety Tool

Innovative technology solutions provide REALTORS® with powerful ways to enhance personal safety throughout all business activities.

Client Verification

Instantly screen potential clients using the FOREWARN app before meeting in person. Access comprehensive background information to make informed decisions about property showings.

Property Access Security

Activate MLS safety timers during solo showings to create accountability and tracking

Implement smart lockbox technology to monitor and control property access with digital audit trails.

Personal Safety Apps

Set ShowingTime Safety Timer: Automatically notifies emergency contacts if you don't check in by your deadline

Enable Live Location Sharing: Keep colleagues informed of your whereabouts through Google Maps or iPhone's Find My Friends

Wearable Security

Equip Yourself with Panic Buttons: Utilize smartwatches or discreet keychain devices for one-touch emergency alerts when you need immediate assistance.

Self-Defense Strategies & Situational Awareness

Implement these essential safety measures during real estate activities to reduce vulnerability and enhance security:

Trust Your Intuition

When something feels wrong, exit immediately client relationships can be rebuilt, but your safety cannot be compromised

Watch for warning signs: inconsistent answers, unusual urgency, inappropriate personal questions, or reluctance to provide ID or meet at your office.

Develop situational awareness by scanning environments, noting behavioral anomalies, and mentally rehearsing exit strategies before meetings.

Legitimate clients understand safety protocols those defensive about reasonable precautions are displaying red flags.

Avoid Becoming a Target

Project professional confidence while maintaining environmental awareness predators typically seek distracted or unprepared individuals.

Direct clients to walk ahead during property tours, giving you control of movement and preventing anyone from blocking exits.

Know escape routes: Position yourself near doorways and always identify the quickest path out of each room.

Maintain professional appearance but avoid displaying expensive items Limit personal information on marketing materials and social media.

Basic Self-Defense Tips

Maintain protective distance use furniture as natural barriers during conversations with clients.

Identify everyday defensive tools (keys, smartphone, flashlight, pen). Consider carrying legal defensive items like pepper spray where permitted

If confronted, prioritize escape over physical confrontation. Create distance and reach safety rather than subduing an attacker

Invest in self-defense training for real estate professionals that teaches techniques applicable to property showing scenarios

Effective self-defense begins before any physical confrontation Your strongest protection comes from preparation, consistent safety protocols, and trusting your instincts when something feels wrong.

FOREWARN: A Must-Have Safety Tool for Agents

Many REALTORS® fail to use the free FOREWARN tool that helps verify a client's background in seconds. If you haven't set up your account yet, make sure to do so today!

Review Background Details

Download the App

Start by installing the FOREWARN application on your mobile device.

Instantly receive comprehensive background information, including any criminal history.

Enter Client Information

Input the potential client's name and phone number into the system.

Make Informed Decisions

Use this valuable information to determine whether to proceed with a meeting safely.

Practical Open House & Listing Appointment Safety Tips

For Open Houses:

Always bring backup: Partnering with a colleague, lender, or industry associate ensures you ' re never alone This not only provides an additional layer of security but also offers support during potentially challenging interactions.

Create security deterrents: Installing temporary cameras or posting professional surveillance signage can discourage potential threats. Visible security measures can deter individuals with malicious intent and create a safer environment

Implement visitor tracking systems: Requiring all attendees to register via digital check-in or formal sign-in sheet with photo ID verification helps maintain accountability. Knowing who is on the property can deter unwanted behavior and aid in identifying individuals if necessary

Secure valuables and personal items: Removing or locking away anything that could be stolen during property showings minimizes the risk of theft. Taking these precautions ensures that personal belongings and valuables are protected during open houses and appointments.

For Listing Appointments:

Perform thorough due diligence: Always verify property ownership and seller credentials before scheduling on-site meetings This step helps ensure you are dealing with legitimate parties and reduces the risk of encountering fraudulent or dangerous situations.

Establish initial contact in public spaces: When working with unfamiliar clients or if a situation raises concerns, meet in a public place for the initial consultation This provides a safer environment to assess the client and discuss their needs before proceeding to private property.

Maintain strategic positioning: During property tours, always position yourself between the client and the nearest exit point. This allows you to maintain control of the situation and ensures you have a clear path to escape if necessary

Exercise heightened vigilance at vacant properties: When showing unoccupied homes, always notify colleagues of your location and expected return time. Vacant properties can be more vulnerable to risks, so it's crucial to take extra precautions and ensure someone knows where you are