Joseph Domino

DRE: SA541769000


(480) 390-6011
(602) 230-7600 (Office)

My Blog

Do not be insulted if I ask for I.D.

Posted On: February 3rd, 2015 3:25AM

As REALTOR Safety Month winds down and in the light of the recent killing of Beverly Carter an Arkansas real estate agent this is a good time to remind agents and clients alike of the risk of encountering someone who may be intent on doing you harm.

As an agent I meet new people on a regular basis. Most of the time I have little or no opportunity to screen the person before we begin to interact.  Showing vacant homes or even holding open houses presents a situation where you have little or no control over an unexpected meeting.  You have to be a quick judge of character and ask the right questions.

Clients too are not averse of risk when meeting a new agent.  As a client you should always take a few minutes to research the agent that you are planning to meet.  For most clients it is easy enough to find information on an agent, including contact information and even pictures.  A few minutes of investigation will let you know if the person you are meeting is in fact the person you are expecting to meet.  Meeting first at an agent’s office or in a public place may be safer than meeting at a vacant home.

Many people that want to view homes like to remain anonymous.  They are concerned that the agent will "bug" them if they revel too much about themselves. When meeting with an agent at an open house or a home showing please don't be insulted if I ask you to sign in or even present some ID to verify your identity.  It is for you safety and the agents. 

If you prefer not to have the agent contact you after your meeting, let them know right up front.  Most agents are very good at honoring a person’s request.

 

Add Comment