By Amy Voltz, 2024 Heartland MLS President
As we step into September, I want to take a moment to reflect on a topic that is deeply personal to me and profoundly important to all of us in the real estate community—REALTOR® Safety Month. This is not just a calendar event but a significant opportunity for us to reaffirm our commitment to the safety and well-being of every real estate professional who is dedicated to helping others find homes.
The Reality of Our Profession
Our roles as real estate professionals place us in unique and sometimes vulnerable situations. Each open house, property showing or client meeting carries its own set of challenges and potential risks. The very nature of our job often involves meeting new people, visiting unfamiliar locations and working in varying conditions. These factors, while integral to our success, also mean we must be vigilant about our safety.
Over the years and very recently, we hear the news stories of incidents that serve as stark reminders of the risks we face. These stories remind us that our safety is something we must actively safeguard, not just during REALTOR® Safety Month, but every single day of the year.
Prioritizing Our Safety
In response to these incidents and growing concerns, let’s look to refine our safety protocols to ensure that each of us can perform our jobs with confidence and peace of mind. Here are some key strategies that I encourage everyone to think about and adopt:
- Engage in Safety Training: I urge each of you to participate in regular safety training sessions. These sessions are not just about learning how to handle emergencies but about empowering ourselves with the knowledge and skills to prevent potential risks. A great place to start could be KCRAR’s Latte & Learn on Safe Selling on Sept. 13.
- Leverage Technology: Today’s technology offers us powerful tools to enhance our safety. From GPS tracking and emergency alert apps to real-time communication devices, let’s utilize these resources to stay connected and protected. My family and I use Life 360 to keep connected with each other’s locations. Another great option endorsed by KCRAR & Heartland MLS is the Noonlight app.
- Vet Clients Thoroughly: Ensure that you’re conducting thorough client verifications on all unknown people. Building trust is essential, but it must be balanced with a mindful approach to personal safety. Even when showing properties to individuals that you do not represent.
- Implement Safety Protocols for Showings: During open houses and private showings, consider having a colleague present, informing someone you trust of your whereabouts, and keeping all doors secured. These simple steps can make a significant difference.
- Have an Emergency Plan: Know your local emergency services and have a clear plan for various scenarios. This preparedness can be crucial in ensuring a quick and effective response when needed.
Fostering a Culture of Safety
Creating a culture of safety within our industry goes beyond individual actions. It’s about fostering an environment where safety is a shared priority. I encourage you to discuss safety openly in your office, share best practices and support one another in our collective efforts to stay safe.
Our commitment to safety is about more than just adhering to guidelines—it’s about showing respect and care for each other. Every precaution we take is a step towards ensuring that we can continue to do what we love with the confidence that we are protected.
Looking Ahead
As we observe REALTOR® Safety Month, let’s all take a moment to reflect on how we can each contribute to a safer real estate environment. Let’s be proactive in our approach, supportive of one another and committed to our own well-being.
Thank you for your dedication to not only helping others find their dream homes, but also for taking the necessary steps to protect yourselves. Together, we can make our real estate community safer.
