In
recent years, there has been a troubling increase in the number of con artists,
thieves, and other criminals masquerading as prospective home buyers in an
attempt to gain access to a property, or worse, its occupants.
As
an experienced REALTOR®, I'm trying to do my part
to make the home selling and buying process smoother and safer for all
involved. To help prevent home sellers
from falling victim to unscrupulous criminals, I have compiled a list of
effective security precautions that I'd like to share with you today.
Do screen prospective buyers over
the phone, asking as many questions as you need to feel comfortable, before
making an appointment.
Don't make an appointment with a
prospective buyer until you've gotten their name and number and verified the
information.
Do leave the prospective buyer's
name and information with a trusted neighbor, friend, or relative before
showing the home.
Don't provide information about
your home's security features.
Do let potential buyers know
you'll be asking for ID, and make a copy of their license or write down their
information when they arrive.
Don't say anything that might
reveal your schedule to prospective buyers.
Do keep a detailed log including
names, addresses, ID information, and tag numbers of everyone who's looked at
your home.
Don't be alone when showing your
property; try to have at least one other adult present.
Do carry your cell phone with you
when showing your home.
Don't let prospective buyers out
of your sight during home showings.
Do hide or remove prescription
drugs, guns, jewelry, and other valuables.
To reduce these security risks for
my clients, I carefully pre-screen prospective buyers before arranging a showing
to ensure they are both sincere in their inquiry and financially qualified to
purchase the home in question.
If you have any more questions about home security, call a local agent who can help you protect your greatest asset, your home.
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