The National Association of REALTORS® and the Illinois REALTORS® want members to work safely as they strive to provide the best possible service to real estate buyers and sellers. Consider five tips from the NAR Safety Program that could help prevent real estate professionals from physical harm:

• Don’t be “too nice” for your own good. Follow your instincts and keep your guard up to potential predators. If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable in any situation, leave.
• Keep your eyes up, ears open and hands free. It is important to be alert to who and what is around you. Talking on a cell phone or listening to headphones can make you an easy target for a predator.
• Be cautious of showing too many pictures of expensive items, such as artwork and other home décor on your property listings as this could attract thieves.
• If meeting a client alone, use a safety app or safety solution that lets trusted contacts know where you are going and how long you plan to be gone.
• If you are being attacked, run in the direction of other people. An assailant usually will not engage in a pursuit which could increase the possibility of detection or apprehension.

Watch for more safety tips on this blog in the coming weeks. The NAR provides many safety resources for REALTORS® to use.

(This is the first of a series of REALTOR® safety tips provided by NAR. The second story is here.)