by Andrew Wooten

Given the recent tragedy (across the country), we felt it was important to remind everyone about Open House safety. The ten simple tips below are crucial for staying safe at any Open House.

Five Don’ts 

Don’t be unaware.
Don’t turn your back on a client.
Don’t go into small rooms (bathrooms, closets, laundry rooms, etc.).
Don’t lead your clients, instead follow and direct them.
Don’t park where you can get blocked in.

Five Do’s   

Do prepare, prepare, prepare.
Do work in teams.
Do use your technology safely.
Do know your escape routes.
Do trust your gut.

My survivors always talk about that gut feeling they’ve had before bad things happen. The criminals I have interviewed always talk about how easy agents make it, purses, laptops and a major lack of awareness.

It doesn’t matter if you are male or female. The one thing you must do is listen and trust yourself. If it doesn’t feel right, don’t do it!

Andrew Wooten has been teaching safety in the real estate industry for the past 27 years. He has authored two books, “A Safety Guide for Open Houses, Listing Appointments and Vacant Properties” and ” The Real Estate Guide to Safety.” He teaches nationally at associations and corporations instructing on how to live, work and play safely.