In the world of real estate, agents often find themselves in unique and potentially vulnerable situations where they are meeting strangers in vacant properties, working alone, and navigating unfamiliar neighborhoods.
While the profession offers flexibility and independence, it also demands heightened awareness and proactive safety measures.
This runs especially true for women in the real estate profession, so we have aimed to provide some practical strategies and tools here to help female realtors stay safe on the job, whether they are residential or commercial agents.
Understanding the Risks
As we mentioned, real estate agents frequently operate in environments that can pose safety challenges of all kinds.
Meeting clients alone, conducting open houses, and touring vacant properties are all routine aspects of the job that can expose agents to potential threats.
Recognizing these risks is the first step toward implementing effective safety measures.
Proactive Safety Measures
Now, as a real estate agent, your number one priority should be being proactive about your safety.
There are a couple of best practices when it comes to being prepared.
Client Verification
Before meeting any new clients, it’s extremely important to verify who they are.
Requesting something like a valid photo ID and having clients complete a prospect identification form can be good first steps to ensure that you’re meeting legitimate individuals. This information should be securely stored and shared with your office or a trusted colleague at a minimum.
Scheduling and Communication
Whenever possible, shoot to schedule any showings you may have during daylight hours.
Also, inform a colleague, friend, or family member about your schedule, including the time and location of your day’s appointments. Regular check-ins are another way to provide an additional layer of security.
Personal Information Management
Limiting the amount of personal information you share with clients is a smart move as well.
Avoid disclosing details such as your home address, personal phone number, or family information. Maintaining professional boundaries only works to help protect your privacy and safety.
Property Familiarization
Lastly, before you go to show a property for a showing or an open house, familiarize yourself with its layout, including all exits and potential escape routes.
During the showing, position yourself near an exit and allow clients to lead the way through the property.
Self-Defense Tools and Technologies
Sometimes, all of the preparation in the world can only go so far. In some situations, female realtors will need a backup, some sort of self-defense tool.
Pepper Spray
Pepper spray is a widely used non-lethal self-defense tool that can work to incapacitate most attackers from a good distance.
These devices are compact, affordable, and quite easy to carry. However, it’s important to be aware of environmental factors, such as wind, which can affect its effectiveness and end up affecting you.
Personal Safety Alarms
Devices like the Birdie personal safety alarm have become increasingly popular among realtors, which emit a loud noise to attract attention and deter potential attackers.
These alarms are small, easy to carry, and can be activated quickly in case of an emergency.
Stun Guns and Tasers
Stun guns and Tasers are the next step up, delivering an electric shock to temporarily incapacitate an attacker.
While effective, they do require being close to the assailant and proper training to use safely. It’s also important to be aware of local laws regarding their possession and use.
Self-Defense Keychains
Self-defense keychains, such as Kubotans or cat ear keychains, are more discreet tools designed to be easily accessible.
While much less serious than stun guns, they can be used to strike an attacker and provide a means of defense in close-contact situations.
Concealed Carry Weapons
For those trained and legally permitted, carrying a concealed firearm offers the highest level of protection.
While it is essential to undergo proper training and regular practice to ensure safe and effective use, concealed guns for women in the real estate space are an amazing form of self-protection.
Just make sure to always stay informed about state and local laws regarding concealed carry.
Leveraging Technology for Safety
Beyond self-defense tools and prep, there are some amazing technological advancements that are great options for female realtors looking to improve their safety.
Safety Apps
Mobile applications like Noonlight and Rescu can provide real-time location tracking and emergency assistance at the touch of a button.
These apps can be an essential part of your safety toolkit and allow you to stay directly connected with a lifeline.
Wearable Safety Devices
Wearable devices, such as smart jewelry with built-in alert systems, are another option that offers more discreet ways to signal for help. These devices can be activated quickly and are designed to blend seamlessly with your attire.
Training and Empowerment
Lastly, it is best practice for female realtors to give themselves the best chance possible in a dangerous situation by actively training and knowing how to handle themselves.
Self-Defense Training
Going to in-person self-defense classes can work wonders when it comes to building confidence and preparing yourself to respond effectively in a dangerous situation.
Training programs often cover techniques for escaping holds, striking vulnerable areas, and using self-defense tools properly.
Situational Awareness
Developing a keen sense of situational awareness is also important, which involves staying alert to your surroundings, recognizing potential threats, and trusting your instincts.
Regularly practicing these skills can improve your ability to respond to unexpected situations.
Staying Safe
At the end of the day, safety is a paramount concern for female real estate agents.
By implementing proactive measures, utilizing appropriate self-defense tools, and engaging in ongoing training, you can significantly reduce risks and enhance your personal security.
Remember, your safety is not just a personal priority but a professional responsibility.
