STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. – The recently released National Association of Realtors® “2018 Member Safety Report” surveyed over 3,000 Realtor® members about how safe they feel while on the job, their personal safety experiences and the safety procedures they follow.

The report, published in September, found that nearly a third of Realtors® experienced a situation that made them fear for their personal safety or safety of their personal information.

“Realtors® on Staten Island and elsewhere understand better than anyone the safety risks associated with real estate transactions, so it is imperative to share safety protocols with home buyers so they can learn about what they may encounter during the home buying process,” said Sandy Krueger, CEO of the Staten Island Board of Realtors® (SIBOR).

According to the NAR report, the most common circumstances that resulted in fearful situations were open houses, showing vacant and model homes, working with properties that were unlocked or unsecured and showing homes in remote areas.

Here are some safety protocols and guidelines from SIBOR to keep in mind when working with a Realtor®, which ensure a safe experience for all parties involved:

MEET AT YOUR AGENT’S OFFICE

Instead of meeting for the first time at a property, a Realtor® may set-up the initial meeting at their office. “Most people would tell you that meeting at a real estate professional’s office is much more comfortable and appropriate for the first meeting and makes both parties feel safe,” Krueger said.

SECURE YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION

Your agent may make copies of your driver’s license and mortgage preapproval letter for their records. This allows the agent to keep a record of your information at their office to be stored in a secure place.  So be sure to have these items on hand for your initial meeting.

“According to the report, nearly 70 percent of real estate offices have standard procedures for safeguarding client data and information. Keeping this information safe and secure is an important step that ensures a safe agent and client relationship,” Krueger said.

DON’T VIEW VACANT PROPERTIES AT NIGHT

Your agent may only show vacant properties by day, so you can see what safety hazards exist, such as loose floorboards or any other defects. So, when viewing a vacant property, expect to view it during daylight hours.

For more information about buying or selling a home on Staten Island, visit SIBORREALTORS.com.

###

Media Contact: Barton Horowitz
Relevant Public Relations, LLC
Headquarters: 718‑682‑1509
Mobile: 917‑715‑8761
Email: [email protected]