Being a real estate agent often means having to juggle numerous responsibilities. Making sure that properties are kept safe and look presentable is one of them. Real estate security becomes absolutely crucial when a property is listed for sale. Listed homes and condominiums are a common target for serious crimes as these properties are usually unoccupied.
As the real estate agent, it is your job to check that your client’s home is secure even when other real estate agents (aside from you), brokers, and contractors have access to it. Moreover, you also need to ensure that you are not in any danger when you’re on your client’s property as well. If you’re dealing with a first-time home seller, here are a few points that you can bring up when it’s time to talk about real estate security.
1. Your client’s home needs to be prepped for showing. Prior to doing an open house or private showing, real estate agents often have to be on the property to do research or prepare it for the showing. This can mean being there at odd hours, requiring easy access to the property. You can help your client feel more secure by recommending that they install an electronic lockbox which has phone synchronization and other restrictions to regulate access to their home.
Explain the different security features of lockboxes, such as how to open a lockbox, to your client so they can choose one that meets their needs. That way, you are free to do your job and your client does not have to worry too much about their property.
2. Your safety is important as well. Your client may feel complacent or unsure about installing any security measures because they’re no longer occupying the property. This can further be bolstered by the fact that they are used to the neighborhood or area that the property is located. That familiarity makes them feel safe. However, the same can’t be said for you as the agent. You need to explain to your client that you might not feel safe being at their property without a security system.
The fact that their property is now empty makes it a target for looters and squatters, who can take advantage of your client’s absence. If you have to be at the property early in the morning or late at night, these intruders can pose a risk to your safety. Your agreement has to go two ways. If your client expects you to sell their home, they should also be able to meet you halfway by letting you work in a safe place.
3. Security affects the value of the property. Put simply, there is a lot to lose when a listed property is damaged or burglarized. An empty and unsecured property is the best target for thieves. This can cause a lot of damage to the property. Not only will your client have to spend more on repairs and replacements, but a lot of potential buyers will quickly lose interest when they find out that a property has been broken into or vandalized.
This can affect the value of your client’s home, making it harder to sell it at property’s current rate. If you and your client want to close the deal on their home at a fair price, prioritizing security is very important.
4. Claims can be easier to make in the case of investigation. If the property was still damaged even with a security system installed, the gathered data can prove to be useful in an investigation. You and your client can submit the security footage, logs, and more to the insurance firm and the authorities. This not only proves that both you and your client are innocent, but it also helps ensure that the actual perpetrators will get caught.
This is especially helpful if your client’s property is a commercial space or located somewhere with heavy foot traffic. It becomes easier to monitor people coming and going from the area and spot any suspicious activity. Moreover, you don’t need to heavily rely on the installed security system around the area or building to gather this evidence. Moreover, your client can change the security rules to fit their needs any time they want to with their own real estate security system.
5. A security system can increase the value of the property. If your client isn’t selling a property but is instead renting it out, an installed security system can help make the property more appealing. Talk to your client about keeping the security system installed in the property even after it’s been rented out.
Explain that this is a benefit worth highlighting and will help your client’s property stand out more in the market. After all, possible renters are usually more willing to pay a higher price if they know that the property is equipped with a competent and reliable security system.
When it comes to your safety and the security of your client’s property, carelessness is not an option. Aside from possibly being a community requirement, keeping listed properties well-protected and secure is a wise decision. It will give you and your client peace of mind.
