It was 8PM on a rainy Saturday when Anna, a brand-new agent, unlocked the door to a vacant listing in a quiet part of town off the beaten path in Snohomish County. The potential buyer, which Anna had never met, had found the home online and insisted on seeing it that night. Eager to impress and grow her business, she agreed to meet them at the house. While nothing happened in this scenario, it easily could have. This type of story is certainly not unique, and many experienced agents have some iteration of this same story. Unfortunately, the agents that are most at risk are new licensees.
In the early months, most new agents are hungry. They say yes to every showing, every lead, every “can you meet me now?” because we are told that’s how you will get your first deal and how you will build your business. But this hustle mindset, while admirable, can quickly put a new agent in vulnerable “at-risk” situations. You’re meeting strangers, often alone, in unfamiliar properties. Pair this with the fact that many new agents have not developed a vetting and clear process to set proper expectations for new clients. The good news is there are several simple habits that can dramatically reduce risk and increase safety for new agents.
Before Showings, Let Someone Know. Tell a friend/family member where and when you are going on a showing and who you are meeting with. There are safety applications with ShowingTime, MLS, and E-key software as well to aid in notifying emergency contacts in case of emergencies.
Never Meet Unverified Clients Alone. Before agreeing to a showing to someone you don’t know, ask for an ID, proof of funds, or a pre-approval. Meet at a neutral location to start before showing (i.e. your office, a Starbucks, or another public place). If they are serious, they will understand.
Never Drive Unverified Clients. Meet them at the property. If they are serious, they will make arrangements to be there themselves.
Always Park for a Quick Exit. Avoid getting blocked in. Do not park in the driveway and too far away from the home you are showing.
Keep Keys & Phone With You At All Times. Do not leave them in your bag or on a kitchen counter. Keep them handy, just in case.
Knock loudly on the front door BEFORE you enter. Even if you understand that the property is vacant. Always enter cautiously and be prepared.
Always Walk BEHIND the clients. Do not walk ahead of a client.
Trust Your Gut—No Questions Asked. If something feels off, it is off. You do not need to justify your discomfort. Step outside, call for backup, or end the appointment.
These ideas may sound simple, but they form a routine that makes safety second nature even when your calendar is packed full. Safety boundaries are not a liability; they are a professional asset. Telling a client, “I always meet new buyers at the office for safety and verification,” shows you run a business with standards. It earns respect. It sets the tone. And it filters out people who weren’t serious to begin with. If someone pushes back on your boundaries, consider it a red flag—not a lost opportunity. In real estate, your reputation can build wealth, but your instincts can save your life. So yes, hustle hard. Go all in. But do not let your drive for success blindside you into risky situations. Be safe out there!
