By Ari Alejo
Every day, REALTORS® put themselves in potentially dangerous situations that we may not think twice about. Most of the time, we are alone. There are several ways to protect ourselves in our day to day activities. Below are simple tips that young professionals can add to their daily routine to keep themselves safe.
- The simplest form that does not require an app or for you to be a “techie” is having a safety buddy that can be reached by phone. Call to inform him or her where you will be and for how long. Ensure that they will check in with you at the end of the set time period if they haven’t heard from you. The best part of the buddy system is that it allows you to reciprocate the favor when one of your colleagues is in the field.
- Step up from the buddy system by adding another layer of safety. There are apps available that aren’t real estate specific but can be as easily applied. The iPhone has a “Find My Friends” app (Android has a similar app) that allows you to share your location with anyone that has an iPhone. You may choose to share your location for one hour, until the end of the day or indefinitely. This feature can be activated or deactivated with a push of a button.
- When you are showing a home or holding an open house, avoid parking in the driveway. This not only gives potential home buyers the opportunity to experience what pulling up to their brand-new home feels like, but doubles as a safety measure to prevent your vehicle from being blocked in.
- During the home showing, always announce your presence when entering the home. A simple, “Hello, REALTOR® coming in”, can go a long way. Allow your clients to walk in front of you when entering rooms and never have you back to them.
- Be prepared for the unexpected. Always keep your phone charged, have gas in the tank and try to conduct your business during daylight hours.
- Always be aware of your surroundings.
- Always trust your gut feeling about situations.
YPN would like to thank everyone who attended the 2nd Annual Blue Party at the beautiful Jackson’s Bistro. This was a sold out event! We had a great time and hope everyone enjoyed the celebration as well. Special shout out to our honorees:
Above and Beyond REALTOR®: Jordan Reppell
YPN Chair Recognition: Annette Newkirk
Strategic Business Partner of the Year: Michelle Hernandez
We can’t wait until next year and hope to see you all there!
Thank you the Blue Party Sponsors
Suncoast: Ailleen Rodriguez
New American Funding: Zintia Melendez
eMortgage: Scott Pendleton
Security Mortgage: Rhonda Smith
AB Insurance & Risk Management: Alex Conguta
Old Republic Home Protection: Janelle Weeden
Amerispec: Erin Guzman
Your Transaction Manager: Angela Settlemyre
Impact Real Estate Coaching: Lauren Smith
AcuSystem: David Gonzalez
Cardinal Roofing: Bridget Jenkins
Lennar: Taria Davis & Diana Pena
Grow Financial: Heidi Hackney
First American Title: Michelle Hernandez