KEEP IT LIGHT

Show properties before dark. If you are going to be working after hours, advise your associate or first line supervisor of your schedule. If you must show a property after dark, turn on all lights as you go through, and don't lower any shades or draw curtains or blinds.

TOUCH BASE

Always let someone know where you are going and when you will be back: leave the name and phone number of the client you are meeting and schedule a time for your office to call you to check in.

STRANGER DANGER
Tell your clients not to show their home by themselves. Inform them that not all agents, buyers, and sellers are who they say they are. Predators come in all shapes and sizes which is why we tell our children not to talk to strangers. Tell your sellers not to talk to agents or buyers, and to refer all inquires to you.

BRING UP THE REAR
When showing a home, always have your prospect walk in front of you. Don't lead them, but rather, direct them from a position slightly behind them. You can gesture for them to go ahead.

YOU ARE NOT ALONE
If you encounter an individual while working late or alone in your office, indicate to that person that you are not alone. Say something like, "Let me check with my supervisor to see whether she's able to see you now."

NOTHING PERSONAL..
When talking to clients and prospects, be friendly, but still keep your personal information private. This means avoiding mention of where you live, your after-work or vacation plans, and similar details.

CARRY LESS
If you carry a purse, lock it in your car trunk before arriving at an appointment. Carry only non-valuable business items (except for your cell phone), and do not wear expensive jewelry or watches, or appear to be carrying large sums of money.

DON'T GET PARKED IN
When showing property or meeting with someone, park your car in front of the property rather than in the driveway. You will avoid having your car blocked in and you'll have an easier time leaving the property.

SCAM ALERT!

At an open house, be alert to visitors' comings and goings, especially near the end of showing hours. Police have reported groups of criminals that target open houses, showing up en masse near the end of the afternoon. While several "clients" distract the agent, others go through the house and steal anything they can quickly take.

BE IN CHARGE

Whenever possible, be sure your cellphone has a full battery charge or is in the process of charging. This is critical, especially if you plan on leaving the house/venue.