It's been a while since we visited the issue of safety, and with
all of the publicity in recent days we think this is a topic that
can never be stressed enough.
As
we all know, most sellers don't want lots of strangers tracking
through their homes, but this is something that is unavoidable if
they want to sell their house. So let's review some of the steps
you should recommend to your seller to make sure their property
remains safe for them and for you.
•
NEVER discuss your personal schedule or habits with potential buyers.
"Every Wednesday John plays golf while I go to the clubhouse
for a swim." This very innocent comment that could be an invitation
to a burglar.
• DON'T
put a message on your answering machine saying that you are not
at home. Instead leave a message that says you can't take their
call because you're busy or unavailable.
• Remember
to remove or lock up all extra keys, credit cards, jewelry, crystal,
furs, and other valuables that you don't want broken or taken. Also
remove prescription drugs. Some seemingly honest people wouldn't
mind getting their hands on a bottle of Viagra®, uppers, or
downers
Now that the
property has been secured, here are a few steps the tech savvy real
estate agent with a virtual tour should discuss with sellers. Be
sure to assure them that you are fully aware of their concerns regarding
safety of showing their house on the Internet.
• Remind
the sellers that you will bring only qualified buyers into their
home because you will eliminate others by use of the virtual tour.
This means no mud tracked in during mud season. This also means
you will be able to schedule showings at a time convenient for everyone.
• Showcasing
the outstanding aspects that make their home unique will not require
you to show their very unique gun collection or valuable paintings.
• Showing
their home on the Internet does not mean their address and their
personal information must be revealed. Ask if you should show the
address.
Now that you
have reassured the sellers that the two of you have made their home
secure, let's list a few safety guidelines for you, the agent.
• Carry
a cell phone, which has been preprogrammed for one touch call to
911, with you at all times.
• DON'T
park your car in such a way that your exit can be blocked in case
you need to leave in a hurry.
• And
most important of all. ALWAYS let someone (friends or colleagues)
know when you're conducting an open house. Don't forget to inform
them of the times as well as the address, and then call them when
it has ended to let them know everything is ok.
Remember these
are only suggestions. We want you, your sellers, and your buyers
to be as safe as possible while creating virtual tours and conducting
routine business. |
