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As a real estate agent, your career offers flexibility, independence, and interaction with diverse clients—but it also comes with unique safety risks.
The very nature of meeting new people in isolated spaces can put you at risk. Here’s a guide to help you stay safe while managing your responsibilities confidently. We’ve organized these essential tips into easy-to-remember mnemonics so you’ll always have safety on your mind.
1. M.E.E.T. – Make Every Encounter Thoughtful
Before meeting a client, always M.E.E.T. (Meet, Evaluate, Examine, and Trust):
Meet them at the office first. Not only does it make a safe, neutral starting point, but it also discourages anyone with bad intentions.
Evaluate their information. Take their driver’s license and car details—think of it as creating a “safety snapshot.”
Examine their online presence briefly (social media, basic search) to ensure they’re genuine.
Trust your instincts. If something feels off, don’t proceed.
Story Flashback: One North Carolina agent, after meeting a seemingly interested buyer, discovered they’d given a fake name and intended harm. Meeting in public could have been a life-saving first step.
2. B.A.C.K.U.P. – Keep Communication Ready
When alone, always have a B.A.C.K.U.P. (Buddy, Awareness, Cell phone, Keep details, Update, Plan):
Buddy up whenever possible. If you feel uneasy, bring someone along.
Awareness is key. Don’t lose sight of surroundings or the client’s actions.
Cell phone in hand! Keep it charged and programmed with emergency numbers.
Keep details of your meeting shared with others.
Update someone hourly if on a showing.
Plan an escape route from each floor or room.
Quick Reminder: Even leaving a note on your desk with details of your whereabouts can make a huge difference.
3. S.T.A.Y. – Smart Tactics for Open Houses
Open houses can be unpredictable, so S.T.A.Y. (Secure, Tell others, Arrange exits, Yes to company):
Secure your valuables and avoid bringing unnecessary items.
Tell neighbors you’re holding an open house. They can help by being vigilant.
Arrange clear exits from every level of the house.
Yes to company! Never do an open house alone, especially in multi-level homes.
Lesson from the Field: A REALTOR® was distracted by one guest while another stole jewelry and electronics. Don’t assume a warm smile equals safe intentions!
4. C.A.R.E. – Car Safety is Your First Escape
Always treat your vehicle as your mobile safety zone, by following C.A.R.E. (Check, Avoid, Ready, Exit):
Check around, inside, and under your car before approaching.
Avoid parking in isolated or dead-end spots. Stay visible and unblocked.
Ready to drive at any moment—keep keys in hand.
Exit safely. If something feels off, leave.
Real Tale: One agent found herself followed in her own car; she quickly drove to a public spot and called for help.
5. D.E.F.E.N.D. – When You Need to Stand Your Ground
Sometimes, confrontation is unavoidable. Here’s how to D.E.F.E.N.D. (Distance, Escape, Fight, Evade, Never freeze, Describe):
Distance yourself as soon as you feel uneasy.
Escape if you can.
Fight if necessary, aiming for vulnerable areas (eyes, groin).
Evade any further harm by moving toward open, populated areas.
Never freeze; take decisive action.
Describe your attacker to police if it’s safe to do so.
Frightening Fact: An agent was attacked but escaped by shouting “Fire!” and running to nearby help.
Final Thoughts
Real estate is a rewarding career, but safety must always come first. By using these mnemonics and staying vigilant, you can navigate your job confidently and safely. S.T.A.Y. A.L.E.R.T. and remember: it’s better to be safe than sorry.
What are your safety practices? Leave a comment below or share with a colleague in an upcoming CE Class!
References
North Carolina Association of REALTORS® & North Carolina Real Estate Commission. North Carolina Real Estate Agent Safety Guide. N.C. Real Estate Safety Council, April 2021.
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