I hate scary stories. I hate scaring people.
When we schedule appointments in Central Ohio it is scheduled through the listing office or listing agent in most cases. In my office sellers get used to talking to Kay or Carol about showings.
Members of the CBR (Columbus Board of REALTORS®) MLS (multiple listing service) use a electronic system to get into the house. Every day I am show homes my “Supra key” has to be updated. Some agents use a cell phone or PDA with an infrared beam, but again it is updated daily.
If someone came to your door and said “_______ ____” (your listing agent) is showing me the house. Don’t let him (or her in.) That is simply what happened in the scary story in South Carolina below.
If someone stops by early for an open house, tell them to come back at the time the open house is scheduled.
If someone asks if they can just come in and see the house as long as they are there, let them contact your listing agent with the information on the sign.
We often hear stories about real estate agents being attacked in the line of duty. We seldom hear stories about someone who is on the market being preyed on in this way. A story from South Carolina.
Here’s similar advice from NAR via Greg Flanagan in South Carolina:
Make sure your clients know these basic rules to keep them and their families safe from predators.
CLIENTS
NEVER allow anyone into your home unless accompanied by a REALTOR® with an appointment.
Ask all REALTORS® and agents to provide proper identification.
Remind your clients that appointments are always made prior to a showing.
Your REALTOR® should not create any situation that makes you uncomfortable. If anything or any situation seems dangerous, lock your door or run to a neighbor. Contact the police and your REALTOR® immediately.
The lock box photo above is really the last generation of lock boxes. The new lock boxes are blue. The gray lock boxes are gone from our market or should be. I understand combination lock boxes should not be used on occupied listings.
