REALTOR® Safety Month: September 2023 and Agent Tips

In September, the real estate industry comes together to observe REALTOR® Safety Month. This annual event focuses on raising awareness about the importance of safety for real estate professionals. Whether it’s showing properties, meeting clients, or conducting business online, safety should always be a top priority for realtors. This article will delve into the significance of REALTOR® Safety Month and explore the tools and precautions that real estate agents can take to ensure their safety and the safety of their clients.

Importance of REALTOR® Safety Month

September is a significant month for the real estate community as it is designated as REALTOR® Safety Month. This annual observance aims to highlight the potential risks that real estate professionals face and educate them about the best practices for maintaining their safety. The real estate industry, by nature, involves meeting prospects, hosting open houses, and dealing with unfamiliar clients, making it essential for agents to prioritize safety.

Realtor Safety Month 2023 provides an opportunity for agents to reflect on their current safety protocols and implement any necessary changes. It serves as a reminder that safety should be a continuous effort, not just a one-time concern. It is not only crucial for agents to protect themselves but also for them to reassure their clients that they are taking all necessary precautions for their safety and peace of mind. By participating in REALTOR® Safety Month, agents demonstrate their commitment to maintaining a safe and secure environment for everyone involved in the real estate process.

Tools and Precautions for Safety

As real estate professionals, there are several tools and precautions that can be implemented to enhance personal safety in the field. These measures not only help agents protect themselves but also create an environment of trust and security for their clients.

1. Personal Safety Apps

One of the most effective tools for realtors is the use of personal safety apps on their smartphones. These apps can provide a range of features, including emergency contact alerts, location tracking, and even discreetly recording audio or video. In the event of a threatening situation, having a personal safety app installed can be a potential lifesaver. Some popular safety apps for real estate professionals include Panik, SafeTrek, and bSafe.

2. Self-Defense Training

Another essential precaution for realtors is self-defense training. Learning basic self-defense techniques can help real estate professionals feel more confident and capable of handling potentially dangerous situations. Many organizations and martial arts studios offer specialized self-defense courses tailored to the specific needs of real estate agents. These courses teach techniques for self-protection, situational awareness, and assertiveness training.

3. Pre-Showing Safety Measures

Prior to conducting property showings, it is crucial for real estate agents to take certain safety measures. This includes informing colleagues or family members about the showing details, ensuring good lighting in the property, and being aware of escape routes in case of emergency. Agents should also trust their instincts and be alert to any suspicious behavior from potential clients. Additionally, establishing a safe word or phrase with colleagues can help alert them to potential danger without alarming the client.

4. Online Safety

Real estate professionals also need to be cautious when conducting business online. Cybersecurity threats such as phishing emails, malware, and identity theft can pose a significant risk to both agents and their clients. It is essential to use strong, unique passwords for online accounts, enable two-factor authentication whenever possible, and regularly update security software on devices. Agents should also refrain from sharing personal or sensitive information through unsecured channels and be vigilant when opening attachments or clicking on links in emails.

NC REALTORS®: Mobile Mondays Sessions on Cyber Security

To further support real estate professionals in prioritizing safety, NC REALTORS® offers a valuable resource called Mobile Mondays. These sessions, led by cyber security expert Jonathan W. Biggs, provide quick tips and insights specifically tailored to realtors. Mobile Mondays is held through a closed Facebook group, allowing agents to ask questions and engage in discussions on various topics related to cyber security and personal safety.

Jonathan W. Biggs, a renowned expert in cyber security, shares valuable insights into the latest threats facing the real estate industry and provides practical strategies for agents to protect themselves and their clients. His expertise helps realtors stay up-to-date with the ever-evolving challenges of online safety and empowers them to take proactive measures to mitigate risks.

Mobile Mondays sessions cover a wide range of topics, including password management, secure data storage, safe browsing habits, and best practices for email communication. By participating in these sessions, real estate professionals can gain valuable knowledge and implement effective strategies to prevent cyber attacks and safeguard their personal and client information.

NAR Safety Resources: Training Videos and Courses

In addition to the resources offered by NC REALTORS®, the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) also provides a wealth of safety resources for real estate professionals. These resources include training videos and courses that cover various aspects of realtor safety.

The NAR safety training videos are easily accessible and cover a range of topics, from personal safety during open houses to self-defense techniques and identifying signs of potential danger. These videos are designed to educate agents about the potential risks they may face and provide practical strategies for minimizing those risks.

Furthermore, NAR offers online courses that delve deeper into realtor safety. These courses provide comprehensive training on topics such as cyber security, personal safety, risk management, and emergency preparedness. By completing these courses, real estate professionals can enhance their knowledge and skills in maintaining a safe environment for themselves and their clients.

Realtor Safety Month serves as a reminder for real estate professionals to regularly assess and update their safety practices. By utilizing the tools and resources available, agents can ensure a secure and protected experience for themselves and their clients throughout the real estate process.

September is REALTOR® Safety Month, a time for real estate professionals to focus on implementing safety measures and staying informed about the potential risks they face. It is important for agents to utilize tools such as personal safety apps, self-defense training, and online security measures to protect themselves and their clients. Additionally, resources from organizations like NC REALTORS® and NAR provide valuable training and guidance to help agents prioritize safety in their day-to-day activities. By making safety a priority, real estate professionals can create a secure environment for everyone involved in the real estate process, ensuring peace of mind and fostering trust with clients.

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