FSBO Safety Tips

Selling a home on your own is hard work. It also takes effort in keeping yourself and your family safe during the entire time. The most important aspect of a For Sale by Owner situation is to take the necessary safety precautions. Many stories about Real Estate agents being attacked or killed when showing homes are not an exaggeration to this issue; it has happened. Therefore, safety precautions and common sense should be followed when showing your home to prospective buyers. Unfortunately, there are many crooks and criminals looking for adds online and in the newspapers, just to take advantage of the situation. However, you can keep safe by following a few simple rules.

Always try to schedule the showing. Take as much information on the phone about the person, and schedule an appointment. Have more than one person at home with you, and of course do not take in people who just show up without a previous appointment.

Have a log of your schedules with all the information and timelines. Make a copy and give it to another person. Have someone call you during that time and after. A code that signifies that everything went well should be arranged between you and the person.

Give some space and room between the prospective buyers and you. They should walk in front of you, and if in an enclosed room, position yourself next to the exit first. Never give your back, or put yourself in a closed position, in case you have to run. Let a good neighbor know that you are showing the home; they can also keep an eye for you.

Daylight is better for showings; however, if you must show the home at night, make sure that there are plenty of lights on, and open window curtains and shades.

Always have a plan of escape - a worst-case scenario plan. Practice it with your partner.

Always have a phone with you, and even pepper spray in a concealed part of your clothing.

Secure your must precious belongings, such as jewelry, money ...

Use common sense. Keep showings controlled as far as flow of traffic. Do not let people wander. Make a polite announcement and direct the traffic flow.

Make sure that your curve appeal is conducive to safety as well - try to trim trees, bushes ... Make the pathway safe for visitors as well - inside and outside - you don't want someone to fall, get hurt, or a law suit.

Keep information in mind at all times - visitors license plates, vehicle descriptions ... Your partner can make quick notations while you direct the traffic flow through your home. Then he/she can join you. In addition, don't tell your life story to strangers, or make public too much information.

These are just a few tips to promote FSBO safety.