Liz B. Real Estate

Safety is a real concern for Realtors everywhere. There have been many attacks on realtors that have made national news. We take courses on how to stay safe in the work place. The National Association of Realtors puts out reports with safety tips and statistics. We carry pepper spray and meet first time clients in public places. We have systems in place in the event we don’t check in after a showing, and so much more.

However we never hear about FISBO safety. If fact I don’t think I have ever discussed it openly with anyone until recently when I was having a conversation with my broker.

So for all you owners that have decided to go it alone and tread the waters of selling your home by yourself, here are some safety tips from a professional.

• No matter how eager you are to sell your home, don’t invite strangers in when they knock on your door.
• Meet potential buyers in a public place.
• Take a picture of the driver’s license for anyone entering your home.
• Have potential buyers email you a copy of their pre-approval letter. If they don’t have one, they are not ready to buy a home and need to get one before they can view your home.
• Be aware of the possibility that someone is just staking out your home to see what they can steal from you.
• Have some type of security system installed in your home. Even if it is something as simple as a ring doorbell.
• Let someone else know when you have buyers coming by. Go as far as sending them a copy of your buyer’s driver’s license.
• Don’t be afraid to turn someone away if they are making you uncomfortable. Let them know they can see the house at a later time and then have someone with you for their rescheduled viewing.

I’m sure there are many more tips you should consider but this is a start.

We live in a world where these safety concerns are part of everyday life. So if you know someone who is selling their home please pass the information along.