Showing Property the Safe Way Release date: 08/01/04 In early May of 2004, a Charlotte real estate agent was sexually assaulted while showing a model home to a professionally dressed man she thought was a prospective buyer. The woman, who had a prearranged meeting to show the home, was working alone at the time of the midday attack. Halfway across the country in Houston, Texas, a crime ring that preyed on open homes was recently uncovered by savvy real estate practitioners. The scam would unfold during home showings, when one of the "potential buyers" would stay downstairs because of "bad knees" or some other ailment. When the agent went upstairs with the accomplice, the person downstairs would rob the house of credit cards, checks, jewelry and other valuables. These are just a few examples of the dangers real estate practitioners face everyday -- but you don’t have to face them alone. Before you head out the door, consider these tips from the N.C. Real Estate Safety Council: Be Aware, Let Clients Lead Don’t advertise a listing as vacant. That is a surefire way to attract the wrong kind of attention. Mention to the prospective buyers that you have another appointment to show the house within a short time. Would-be attackers might think twice if they know other people will be showing up at the property soon. When you arrive at the showing, park in a well-lit area on the street instead of the driveway, so you can make a quick getaway if needed. Keep your keys and cell phone with you at all times. As you walk to the property, check out your surroundings and be alert for anything unusual or out-of-place. At the door, take a few seconds to scan the house before you enter. Make sure nothing looks suspicious and then step aside and let the client enter first. Always let prospective clients lead the way into rooms, while you stay close to the door. You can flee more easily if you get a bad feeling about the situation. Be aware of possible escape routes and leave all doors open. Avoid attics, basements, walk-in closets and other confining areas. Remind sellers to put valuables (including prescription drugs) in a safe, secure place. Do not leave your briefcase, purse or laptop sitting on a counter. Remember, that nice couple could actually have other motives besides seeing the property. Thieves often work in teams; while one is keeping you occupied, the other is stealing whatever they can. Additional Open House Tips Arrive early and survey exits to establish escape routes from each level. Make sure all deadbolt locks are unlocked to facilitate a faster escape. Double check the backyard to make sure you can easily flee the property if necessary. Introduce yourself to the neighbors and let them know when you will be holding an open house. They will be more alert to unusual sounds and you will have somewhere to run to if you need help. Before you open the home, write the date and time on the back of one of your business cards and place it in a kitchen cupboard. When prospects begin arriving at the open house, jot down their car description, license number and a physical description of each person. This will assist you in remembering names as well. Whenever possible, buddy up at open houses. At the very least, set-up a check-in system with your office or a buddy and phone in regularly. Be especially alert at the end of the day when predators might assume you’re more vulnerable. When leaving the property, secure the house and check all windows and doors.