Put Your Safety First, 11 Tips for Safer Property Showings
Creating a safety plan for when you meet with prospective tenants is essential to ensure the safety of yourself and your property. It is no secret that strangers can present dangers but when it comes to finding a great tenant for your investment property you will likely need to meet with a lot of prospective tenants without knowing much more than their names. While most showings will be uneventful and having a plan in place is arguably the most important aspect of your showing strategy for your rental. In this article, we will cover some of the best practices that landlords should follow when showcasing your rental space safely and effectively. With some steps in place, the process should extremely productive, not be overly stressful, and can even be enjoyable.
1. Have someone else show your home for you.
Most landlords prefer to meet their prospective tenants in person but if you’d rather not, it may be best to pass the job onto someone else. If possible, having someone who is familiar with real estate showings can really help close a deal faster and more efficiently. Professionals such as Realtors or Property Managers may offer these limited services to assist you with showings for a minimal fee.
2. Pre-register prospective tenants and require a check-in text
Always speak directly with potential tenants before scheduling a private showing. Set your standards of how you will record their identity and stick with that requirement across the board. This can be as simple as a text picture of their license required to schedule, no system of identification is fool-proof but requiring a legal id will provide some precaution.
3. Install security cameras inside and out.
It’s always a good idea to add security cameras to your property in case of an emergency whether or not you intend to attend the showings personally. Cameras will not only help catch any suspicious activity and provide proof if something were to happen while you are away, they also provide real-time monitoring of who is coming to the home and when.
4. Have a showing partner
Having another human present during your showings will not only provide an additional layer of protection and some good company between showings, they also can help out a bit if you get more than one or two families viewing at a time. When showing be sure that you and your showing partner split up to cover different areas of the home and never be in the same room while showing and have a plan for what should happen if something were to go left.
5. Stay aware of your position
It’s important to stay vigilant and aware of the people around you during a showing. Lock doors once your expected parties enter and try to stay in entryways avoiding areas where you can be blocked or trapped in. Stay alert for physical and verbal cues and don’t let yourself be distracted while showing. Always be prepared to flee the property quickly.
6. Overlap Appointments
When scheduling appointments set time limits and expectations early. Let viewers know that showings will be in 10-15 minute increments, schedule tight, and slightly overlap. Be sure that your tenants know that there will be other showings and that you will be respecting everyone's time.
7. Tell neighbors what you're doing.
When you are renting or selling your home nosey neighbors can be your best friends. Give them courtesy notice that you are renting and scheduling showings. Reassure them that you are doing your best to inconvenience them as little as possible and ask them to call your safety number if something looks suspicious or if they observe anything strange, especially during showings. Most neighbors will appreciate the heads-up and be happy to keep an eye out.
8. Have a check-in system with a friend.
Having someone on the phone during the entire showing appointment is an option but if that isn't feasible, it is important to notify others that you have the appointment, who you are meeting, and when you expect to be finished. Have them call or text you to check on you and have a safety phrase such as "yes, please take out the chicken" to let them know if you need any assistance.
9. Show your rental without being there.
With the combination of a smart lock, doorbell camera, and interior stick-up cam you can manage and host showings from anywhere. When using this off-site method you will need working wifi and electrical services. You will want to be meticulous with your pre-qualification process and have a system for granting access, answering questions, and securing the property afterward.
10. Meet during daylight hours
Whenever possible, it's best to meet prospects during daylight hours or at least peak times when there will be many people around. If you are meeting with prospects at night be sure to get there early and turn on all lights inside and outside of the home.
11. Finally, trust your gut.
No matter the situation it is always important to trust your instincts and remain on alert. If something feels off or even if it just seems too good to be true, keep your safety a priority.
Conclusion
While no system is fool-proof, following these simple tips can help you stay safe while showing your home. Implementing a check-in system with a friend, telling your neighbors what you're doing, and using technology to show your home remotely are all great precautions to take. Being aware of your surroundings and trusting your gut instincts are also essential in keeping yourself safe.