I’ve encountered several questionable tours before that gave me a gut feeling that something was not “right”. Being a southern raised female I was instructed to always believe the best in people no matter what you “think or feel”. I ignored those gut feelings and paid the price. I believe in listening to those gut feelings now!

In order to comply with company policies, fair housing and such, those in the field doing the actual tours can feel they are in a tight spot. But they aren’t! Having a plan in place for any circumstance is your best defense. In conjunction with the many suggestions previously made consider the following as well.

In circumstances where one is alone and NO ONE is on property to accompany them or pop by the show unit to check in on them, here are a few tips that may help detour unwanted behavior.

#1. ALWAYS have a plan in place and be prepared!

#2. Call someone and tell them that you will be showing the 1 bedroom model, or apartment 1204 or whatever unit you so choose. Tell that person that they are more than welcome to come on up to the office and that you will be back in less than 5 minutes. Even if no one answers, leave a message or even pretend to have that conversation. This will let a potential threat know that you have people waiting on you and know where you are and when you will be back.

#3. OR: Tell the prospect that the maintenance staff is on their way down to the show unit to do some repairs, but if they can excuse their presence you would be happy to show them.

#4. Some companies require the tour to include the agent opening doors, cabinets, etc. In those instances it become a serious question you need to be ready to answer: What are you willing to risk? Your safety? Your job? If you are willing to risk your job, immediately document your reasons in detail for not following company procedure. Inform your supervisor immediately following the incident. This should protect you and the company.

Priority number one is safety!

Listen to your gut and have a plan in place! It’s a winning combination!!

Having been in the industry over 20 years and being married to a police officer I have learned many tactics to help me succeed in protection and accomplish success in business. These are simply a few of the many plans I had in place and used over the years. Each company must discuss and have their own plan in place in advance as well as ensure proper training and policy implementation. The goal is to conduct business in a professional, safe and successful manner!!!!!!

Respectfully,

Posted by Robin Shifflett

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One thing I have always had as a personal practice in showing apartments is to always leave my keys in the door and to have the dead bolt turned out so the door itself CANNOT be closed and that leaves a way out.

As has been stated prior, let someone know exactly where you are going and when to expect you back.

Something that I have done as well is to, send my maintenance tech to do the tour and simply explain that I have something pressing and apologize.

If someone’s intent is bad, they will either beg off or simply go with them so as not to arouse suspicion.

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Patricia McLoughlin

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