The thrill of closing a deal, meeting new clients, and showcasing homes is why many of us love being real estate agents. But what happens when excitement turns to unease? What if that “interested buyer” turns out to have other intentions? What do you do when you’re in a vacant home with a stranger, and your gut tells you something’s off?
Unfortunately, realtor safety isn’t just a minor concern—it’s a real and growing problem for agents. A recent National Association of Realtors® (NAR) survey revealed that 34% of agents have felt unsafe at work, particularly during open houses or showings. And let’s face it: the nature of our job—meeting strangers, entering unfamiliar locations, and often working alone—creates risks we can’t afford to ignore.
This article isn’t about paranoia; it’s about preparation. We’ll share 10 ironclad real estate agent safety tips to help you take control, minimize risks, and confidently navigate your work. From smarter client screening to using tech tools and safety protocols, these tips can keep you safe while you help clients find their dream homes.
1. Maintain a Professional Image and Set Clear Boundaries
You probably know an agent in your office who meets prospective clients in overly casual clothing like blue jeans, an old polo shirt, and flip-flops. While it may seem more comfortable, this attire can negatively impact your safety by making you appear less professional and potentially vulnerable to scammers or predators.
On the other hand, a polished business casual look sends a clear message of confidence and professionalism while still being practical for your day-to-day work. By dressing for success, you put clients at ease and can discourage anyone with bad intentions.
Additionally, a professional image goes beyond clothing. Setting firm personal boundaries, like being clear about work hours or politely declining overly personal questions, establishes that you’re approachable without being overly familiar.
Staying cautious on social media accounts is also important. Be sure to limit the amount of personal information you share and avoid revealing where you live.
2. Pre-Screen and Vet Your Clients
Realtor safety begins long before you’re at a property with a new client. Before agreeing to meet with a client, make sure to pre-screen them by asking detailed questions over the phone or email, such as:
- What specific features in a home are you looking for?
- What is your budget?
- Have you been pre-approved for a mortgage?
- Do you have any specific location preferences?
When first speaking with a potential client, stay alert for red flags. People who refuse to meet in public, provide incomplete or false information, or attempt to rush the process may warrant extra caution.
Establish a policy for first-time meetings in public locations like your office or a busy café. That allows you to assess potential clients before moving to private property showings. Verifying client information, such as requesting a copy of their ID or driver’s license, is another important step in protecting yourself.
The National Association of Realtors offers valuable safety guidelines, including tips for pre-screening clients, which can help you fine-tune your approach.
3. Stick to Showings During The Day and Stay Alert
Whenever possible, schedule showings during daylight hours. Clients might push for evening appointments, but you can explain that daylight showings offer a better view of the property. If evening is the only option, take extra precautions, like bringing a colleague or notifying someone you trust about your appointment.
Working in pairs is another solid safety practice. Having another agent or assistant with you helps deter potential threats and allows for a second perspective during the showing. If that’s not feasible, always inform your office manager or a trusted colleague of your schedule, including details like the client’s name and the property address.
Finally, consider using the 10-second rule outlined by the National Association of Realtors. This strategy involves taking 2 seconds at key moments—such as when you exit your car or enter the property—to scan your surroundings and identify potential risks.
4. Inspect, Plan, and Stay Safe During Open Houses
An open house can be a great way to attract buyers, but it also has unique safety challenges. Before welcoming visitors, walk around and inspect the property, both inside and out. Look for any items that could be misused as a weapon, like knives or heavy objects, and make sure they are safely stored out of sight.
Plan escape routes ahead of time so you can act quickly if you feel threatened or uncomfortable. Identify exits and make sure they remain unobstructed during the open house. Try to stay close to an exit whenever possible. Greeting visitors at the door makes them feel welcome and also keeps you in a safe place.
Using a sign-in sheet is another key safety tool. By collecting names and contact information, you can track who enters the home while subtly discouraging anyone with ill intent.
5. Use Personal Safety Technology and Tools
There are a host of new tools and technology that can offer peace of mind and another layer of protection. Cell phone tools like mobile safety apps and GPS trackers can ensure someone always knows where you are.
Portable panic buttons are another smart choice, letting you discreetly call for help by simply pressing a button if something feels off. These devices are simple to use and can quickly connect you with the support you need without escalating the situation.
Scheduling apps with check-in reminders help others keep tabs on your schedule, while video calls or regular check-ins with colleagues create an added safety net. These non-confrontational tools allow you to focus on your work without the stress or unintended consequences that could come from using physical self-defense items like pepper spray.
6. Practice Situational Awareness and Strategic Positioning
While technology can be valuable, situational awareness is a skill you can develop that doesn’t require extra money, tools, or accessories. Having an awareness of your situation means constantly assessing your environment for potential risks and maintaining a heightened sense of your surroundings.
Use strategic positioning techniques when showing properties. For instance, always allow clients to enter rooms first, giving you control of the exit and a clear view of their actions. Avoid entering confined spaces like basements or attics with clients. Instead, direct them from the doorway, maintaining a safe distance and clear escape route. During property tours, position yourself near exits whenever possible.
You can also consider attending workshops on de-escalation techniques and “verbal judo,” a communication tactic that uses empathy and active listening to diffuse potentially volatile situations. Remember, the goal is to avoid confrontation altogether through preparation and awareness.
7. Communicate Confidently and Have an Emergency Plan
Your communication style as a real estate agent can be a powerful proactive safety measure. Clear, confident, and professional communication immediately sets the tone with prospective clients and can help deter potential threats.
When speaking with clients, use a friendly yet assertive tone that conveys your expertise and authority in the field. Establishing strong verbal boundaries from the outset can discourage those who might otherwise attempt to take advantage if they think you are vulnerable.
While the right communication style can prevent many risky situations, having a plan for emergencies is crucial. Establish a system of code words or phrases with your office, family, or trusted colleagues.
For instance, you might call for help by saying, “Need the red file for 123 Main Street,” to signal that you need immediate assistance. This discreet method allows you to signal you’re in danger without alerting a potential aggressor.
8. Avoid Driving Clients, but Take Precautions if You Must
Taking clients to view properties is often part of the job. However, this seemingly routine task can present significant safety risks. When you’re alone in a confined space with someone you’ve just met, you’re at risk. You want to balance providing excellent service with looking out for your safety.
One approach is to establish a policy of meeting clients at properties rather than driving them yourself, at least initially. That allows you to assess their behavior and build trust before sharing a vehicle.
For those times when driving clients is necessary, take precautions. Keep your vehicle well-maintained to avoid breakdowns in potentially unsafe areas. Always keep your phone charged and within reach.
Finally, don’t hesitate to change plans or end the showing early if a situation feels unsafe.
9. Partner Up or Use Check-Ins
Real estate professionals are accustomed to working independently, but there’s undeniable safety in numbers. Partnering with a colleague, even occasionally, can increase your security without compromising your autonomy or commission structure. Consider teaming up with another agent for open houses or when showing properties in remote locations or at night.
You can implement a buddy system if working directly with a partner isn’t feasible. That could involve pairing up with a trusted colleague for check-ins before and after showings. You could also consider mentoring a new agent. Training a new hire contributes to their professional growth and offers an extra set of eyes during property visits.
For those who prefer solo work, virtual partnerships can be effective, too. Use technology to your advantage by sharing your real-time location with a trusted contact during showings. Establish a protocol where you send a quick text or use a safety app to check in at predetermined intervals.
10. Trust Your Instincts
Your intuition is often your best line of defense against potential dangers. That gut feeling or nagging sense of unease isn’t just nerves. It’s your subconscious processing subtle cues that your conscious mind might miss. Learning to trust and act on those instincts can be crucial for your safety.
Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. If a situation feels unsafe, trust your instincts and remove yourself. Cancel a showing, end a house tour early, or decline a listing if something doesn’t feel right. Your safety is far more important than any potential commission.
Pay attention to your intuition. You’re not being paranoid or unprofessional. You’re using one of the best real estate agent safety tools you have.