Best Ways for Realtors in New York to Stay Safe on the Job
In the world of real estate, many agents often work alone on a daily basis, whether it be meeting unfamiliar clients, showing properties in various locations, or just setting up an open house for later in the day.
That is why personal safety has been a major concern that has been gaining some publicity as of late. Considering most real estate agents put effort towards looking good to impress clients, they make for big targets for individuals with nefarious intent
As a real estate agent, understanding and mitigating these risks is essential for maintaining work security as well as all their professional responsibilities, and while this does apply to both men and women agents, the concern is slightly higher for women working in the field.
Recognizing the Biggest Safety Threats
Before getting into any solutions or recommendations for improving safety, we must first cover what the biggest threats are when it comes to realtors.
One of the greatest dangers these agents face is working alone, especially when showing vacant properties or homes in isolated areas. Criminals very often target agents because they frequently operate solo in unfamiliar places.
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 33% of agents have felt unsafe at some point during a showing. Additionally, high-crime neighborhoods present an increased risk, with realtors being potential targets for anything from robbery to assault.
Concerns even go as far as scammers posing as fake buyers or renters creating security risks, and using deception to lure agents into unsafe situations where they can make demands or attempt to rob them.
Safe Scheduling and Property Showings
In order to minimize risks from the start, realtors should prioritize scheduling showings during daylight hours if and whenever possible.
Bringing a colleague, assistant, or even a trusted friend to accompany them can also add an extra layer of protection and security, as a solo target is far more attractive to criminals compared to a party of 2 or more.
When conducting a showing, positioning oneself near exits is also a great way to establish a clear escape route in case of an emergency. Lastly, agents should also maintain control of the tour by leading from behind rather than allowing clients to walk behind them.
Pre-Screening Clients for Security
A much more commonly accepted practice in today's real estate world is verifying the identity of potential buyers before meeting them, which can be a crucial element of staying safe on the job.
Requesting identification, conducting background checks, and researching clients’ online presence can all work to help prevent dangerous encounters. Some big red flags to watch for include clients refusing to provide identification or insisting on meeting in a private or isolated location.
The safest approach is to meet first-time clients in open and public places before showing properties, with some good options being an office or a coffee shop.
Carrying and Using Self-Defense Tools
Now, there are only so many precautions you can take, and you never know when a normal real estate situation can turn into a dangerous one. For that exact reason, realtors in New York have several avenues they can take in terms of legal self-defense options.
The key here is understanding the New York state and city laws regarding weapons, as it is important to stay compliant while protecting oneself.
Legal Self-Defense Weapons in New York
When it comes to state laws, New York is quite restrictive when it comes to the possession of many self-defense tools.
Several popular options include tools such as pepper spray and personal alarms, which are perfectly legal for self-defense purposes. For a more comprehensive self-defense option, firearms do require a concealed carry permit in New York but are a surefire way to keep yourself safe as a realtor.
For some, the idea of carrying a concealed firearm might seem intimidating, but there are countless ways to concealed carry with all of the recent advancements in concealed carry technology and apparel. For men, the most popular option is the inside-the-waist holster, and while that is also popular among women, concealed carry purses have also become quite popular.
Tasers and stun guns, however, remain illegal in the state, so just make sure you confirm with your state and regional laws before making any purchases.
Choosing the Right Self-Defense Tools
Now that we’ve covered some of the best options out there, selecting the best self-defense tool really depends on an agent’s comfort level and legal considerations.
Tactical flashlights with high lumens are the least serious option and can disorient attackers, while self-defense keychains and alarms can help by alerting others in case of an emergency.
As we mentioned, concealed carry is a very real option for those who meet New York’s strict permitting requirements, but it requires proper training and strict compliance with state laws.
Self-Defense Training and Best Practices
Every real estate agent should have some base level of self-defense training, regardless of the tools they carry.
Taking self-defense classes can empower realtors with the practical and necessary skills to handle just about any dangerous situation.
Many community centers and private training facilities in NYC offer specialized personal safety courses, many with individual courses for men and women.
Understanding how to properly use any self-defense tools effectively and maintaining situational awareness is another perk of this training that can help prevent violent encounters.
De-escalation techniques, such as maintaining calm body language and avoiding confrontation, are among some of the other ways you might benefit from a self-defense course.
Using Technology to Improve Realtor Safety
There is some amazing technology that has come out recently, providing realtors with innovative new ways to enhance their safety, ranging from GPS tracking to wearable security devices.
GPS Tracking and Location-Sharing Apps
Something that every agent working in the field should have is some type of GPS tracking.
Location-sharing apps like Life360 and bSafe allow realtors to share their whereabouts in real time with trusted contacts and other members of their office. Geofencing features can send automatic alerts if an agent enters a high-risk area or fails to check-in.
There is also a wide array of panic-button apps that can help discreetly notify emergency responders when activated without alerting the criminal.
Security Systems for Open Houses and Showings
Temporary home security cameras can also provide extra surveillance during open houses, adding another layer of security.
Smart locks are also becoming more commonplace, ensuring controlled access to properties by limiting who can enter and when. Systems like these also allow other realtors or coworkers to monitor properties remotely using live-feed security systems, which can help agents manage security risks and keep up with colleagues' whereabouts without being physically present.
Realtor-Specific Safety Apps and Wearable Devices
As we mentioned, there are several apps and wearable devices catered specifically to real estate professionals with the goal of improving safety. One of which we have yet to cover is smart rings and bracelets, which are equipped with distress signals and provide an added layer of security.
Silent alarm systems are another great option that can discreetly notify authorities or colleagues when activated, ensuring a rapid response in case of any type of danger.
Creating a Personal and Workplace Safety Plan
Every single real estate agent should have a personal as well as a company-wide safety and security plan to follow in case of emergency.
Having a structured safety plan in place can help make sure that realtors are prepared for anything and know the exact next steps when they find themselves in trouble.
Establishing Office Safety Procedures
Real estate offices should implement regimented check-in protocols for agents working alone or in high-risk situations out in the field such as open houses.
Setting up emergency contact systems, such as a designated check-in person and windows for check-ins improves accountability across the board. These buddy systems for appointments are extremely helpful, especially in unfamiliar or high-crime areas.
Staying in Control of the Property Showing
As we alluded to earlier, realtors should always position themselves near or around an exit and be aware of potential escape routes.
Subtle techniques, such as asking questions to gauge a client’s intentions, can help identify suspicious behavior, and anyone with negative intentions can hopefully be identified right away.
Establishing an emergency distress signal with colleagues, such as a predetermined phrase or coded text message, can quickly alert others to danger, again, without spooking the criminal
Learning Conflict De-Escalation Strategies
Lastly, the best way to avoid a bad situation, especially if you have no other options, is de-escalation.
Recognizing early warning signs of aggression, such as raised voices or threatening body language, can allow realtors the time they need to respond appropriately. Verbal de-escalation techniques, including speaking calmly and maintaining a non-threatening body posture, are all ways that agents can diffuse most tense situations.
With that being said, if a showing becomes highly dangerous, the priority should be to leave safely rather than engage in any type of confrontation. De-escalation should be used only if the agent is extremely confident the situation can be rectified.
Implementing these safety strategies can significantly reduce risks for realtors working in New York. By staying vigilant, leveraging technology, and having a clear safety plan, real estate professionals can confidently navigate their careers while prioritizing personal security.
