Safety tips when buying or selling a home-President's message
Earlier this year, one of the local news stations
contacted me and asked me for information about staying safe when
selling a home. Apparently a man pretending to be a Realtor had asked
to see a Lehi home that was for sale. Only after the man had wandered
around the house did the family become suspicious and call police who
later found out the man was an impostor.
When you are selling a home, there are inherent risks because you
are working with unfamiliar people who will be going through your
house. You may also find yourself alone with a stranger in a secluded
place. Without the proper precautions, your valuables could be stolen
or you could risk your own personal safety.
Because of these concerns, the National Association of Realtors has
designated Sept. 13-19 as Realtor Safety Week. Along with educating
Realtors about the potential risks of meeting prospects, showing homes
and hosting open houses, the Association also aims to provide safety
information to home buyers and sellers as well. Here are some of their
tips for staying safe.
Any homeowner contemplating putting his or her home on the market
should consider that strangers will be walking through the home during
open houses and showings. That's why it's wise to make sure any
valuables are in a safe place, including prescription drugs and
personal information like bank statements that could be used for
identity theft. Consider hiring a security guard if you have valuables
that cannot easily be secured.
After the showing or open house, verify that none of your valuables
are missing. It's also a good idea to check that all doors and windows
are locked in case someone is planning on breaking into the house later
on. Thieves will often use open houses to look for valuables and points
of entry, planning to return after the Realtor has left.
Not all prospects are who they say the are, so never allow an
unannounced stranger to tour your house. Have all potential buyers call
your Realtor who will set up an appointment only after pre-qualifying
the prospect. Even if the unannounced guest says they're a Realtor,
have that person call and make an appointment with your Realtor. It is
never a good idea to show your home without an agent present.
Refrain from talking to prospects about your personal schedule. Do
not provide details about when you work or or other information that
could let people know when your house will be vacant. Also avoid
answering machine messages that indicate you are not at home, and do
not discuss security measures with prospects.
Finally, working with a Realtor is also a safety precaution.
Realtors are experienced in following safety procedures and are trained
to watch for suspicious behavior. Furthermore, Realtors will always
pre-qualify prospects before ever bringing anyone to your home.
While buyers do not face as many safety risks in the home-buying
process, they should consider the safety of the homes they are buying.
As you consider a potential property, carefully observe the
neighborhood and look for street lighting and other safety features.
Also take time to research the crime in the area. The individual
features of the home may also be important as you consider safety. For
example, a fenced yard, attached garage and dual-pane windows may
provide additional safety.
Regardless of whether you are a home buyer or a seller, safety is
an important consideration. Home buyers should carefully consider the
safety features of each home while homeowners should have a safety plan
in place before putting a home on the market. If you use a Realtor,
take time to talk to your agent about what safety procedures he or she
will implement when selling your home. Also ask what safety precautions
you should personally be taking when your home is on the market.
For more information about buying or selling a home in Utah, visit UtahRealtors.com.