Being a real estate agent involves spending your day meeting strangers, walking through empty properties, and often working alone.
And while most clients are perfectly trustworthy, the unfortunate reality is that real estate agents—especially women—face serious safety risks on the job.
In fact, one in three realtors has felt unsafe during a showing, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR).
So, how do you stay safe while doing what you love? It all comes down to being proactive, using smart strategies, and leveraging technology.
Here’s how you can protect yourself while keeping your business thriving.
Pre-Screening and Client Verification
Meet First, Show Later
Would you hand a house key to a complete stranger? Of course not. That’s why it’s important to meet new clients in a safe, public place first—whether it’s your office, a coffee shop, or a busy co-working space.
This lets you gauge their intentions before heading to an isolated property together.
Verify Their Identity
Scammers, thieves, and worse often try to avoid leaving a paper trail. That’s why requesting a copy of their driver’s license or ID before a showing is a must. A quick Google or social media search can also tell you if their information matches up.
If something feels off, trust your gut and don’t proceed.
Listen to Your Instincts
Your intuition is your first line of defense. If a client insists on meeting alone, avoids giving personal details, or refuses identity verification, that’s a red flag. You’re under no obligation to put yourself at risk.
Best Practices During Property Showings
Tell Someone Where You’ll Be
It’s not enough to just let someone know where you are—you need real-time tracking.
Share your location with a friend or colleague, set up a check-in system, and always have a plan in case something feels wrong.
Arrive Early and Assess the Property
It's a good idea to arrive before your client and scope out the property—not just to check its curb appeal, but to locate exits, make sure doors aren’t jammed, and identify any areas that feel unsafe.
Keep Control of the Situation
Here’s a simple rule: Always let the client walk in first. This keeps you closer to an exit in case you need to leave quickly. And never let a client block your path. Keep your phone in your hand and, if you feel uncomfortable, fake a call to a colleague to let them know where you are.
Park Smart
A quick escape starts with parking strategically. Back into a well-lit spot near the property’s entrance so you can leave at a moment’s notice—without getting boxed in.
Using Technology for Safety
Stay Connected with Safety Apps
Today’s tech can be a game-changer when it comes to safety. The ResQ app is paired with your safety necklace or bracelet and allows you to share your real-time location, set up emergency alerts, and call for help in seconds.
Read: The Best Safety Apps for Women
Set Up Check-Ins
If you’re heading into a showing alone, schedule automatic check-ins. A simple "I’m OK" text every 15 minutes could make all the difference in an emergency.
Protect Yourself on the Job – Get a ResQ Panic Necklace.
Open House Safety Measures
Never Work Alone
Hosting an open house? Bring a colleague or friend. Not only does this deter bad actors, but it also helps you manage multiple visitors at once.
Lock Up Valuables
Did you know 76% of home thefts happen during open houses? Remind homeowners to lock up valuables, especially jewelry, cash, and prescription medications. Your job is to sell the house, not manage a crime scene.
Control Who Comes In
Create a sign-in sheet or use a digital check-in system. If someone refuses to sign in, that’s a red flag. Keeping a record of visitors adds a layer of security and can help in case something goes wrong.
Limit Access
Keep all back doors and unused entrances locked. This ensures that visitors enter and exit through a single, controlled space—making it easier for you to monitor who’s coming and going.
Self-Defense and Personal Safety Training
Learn Self-Defense
Taking a self-defense course designed for real estate agents can make a huge difference in your confidence and safety. These classes teach how to break free from holds, de-escalate confrontations, and escape dangerous situations.
Stay Aware
Situational awareness is key. Avoid distractions like checking your phone when walking to and from your car. Pay attention to who’s around you and what’s happening nearby. If something feels off, trust your instincts and leave.
De-escalation Is a Skill
Not every dangerous situation calls for physical defense. Learning verbal de-escalation techniques—like maintaining personal space and using assertive body language—can help you calm tense situations before they escalate.
Using Professional Networks and Resources
Get Support from Your Brokerage
Many brokerages offer safety training, emergency protocols, and team support. If yours doesn’t, suggest implementing one!
Learn from Other Agents
Real estate forums, Facebook groups, and local associations are great places to share experiences and learn new safety strategies. If you’ve had a close call, talking about it could help another agent avoid the same situation.
Tap Into Industry Resources
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) provides safety guidelines, training, and reports that highlight real estate safety trends and best practices. Stay informed, and stay prepared.
Final Thoughts
You shouldn’t have to choose between closing a deal and feeling safe. By following these real estate agent safety tips, you can confidently protect yourself without compromising your career.
From meeting in public places and parking strategically to leveraging tech like the ResQ-App and wearing a panic button, there are countless ways to stay secure on the job.
Your safety is worth more than any commission. Prioritize it. Protect it. Own it.
Stay Safe at Showings – Wear a ResQ Safety Bracelet