"As crime victims go, agents fall well short of taxi drivers, who suffer the highest rate of homicides of any particular occupation, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. But every so often, the headlines scream out about a real estate agent who is murdered, raped, robbed or beaten while showing a house for sale."
"Many realty firms and their trade groups have made safety a top concern, but rarely do agents pass along safety tips to their clients. As a result, sellers often go forth totally oblivious to the dangers that lurk."
"First and foremost, trust your instincts. Your intuition is your most powerful crime-fighting weapon. If something or someone makes you uncomfortable, be extra alert and extremely careful."
"If prospective buyers or an unknown agent shows up at your door unannounced, have them call your agent to schedule an appointment. Don't open your door to strangers. No exceptions!"
Real estate agents experience occupational hazards when showing properties, though their homicide rate remains lower than taxi drivers. High-profile cases like Beverly Carter's murder in Arkansas underscore these dangers. While realty firms prioritize safety, they rarely educate sellers about risks. Criminals may target homes for theft, burglary casing, or worse. Homeowners should trust their instincts, never open doors to unannounced visitors, always use their agent to schedule showings, and never allow strangers into their homes when alone. These precautions protect both personal safety and property security.
Read at Los Angeles Times
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