We have recently been made aware of a concerning situation that happened between a member and potential buyer.

Following the incident, the REALTOR^® immediately notified the RCMP who have since dealt with the individual. With this situation being brought to our attention, we want to highlight that member safety is of the utmost importance.  

Protect yourself, and your business, by making safety a part of your everyday practice with some of the tips below.

Verify your new client

Trust your gut instincts and remember to be cautious when dealing with the public – especially when it’s someone you don’t know.

If a new client connects with you online, such as REALTOR.ca, ensure you know who you’re dealing with by verifying their identity. Make sure to ask for a form of identification, so you can confirm that they are who they claim to be. A serious client will not hesitate to share this information.

Buddy up

Have a buddy program so someone always knows where you are and when you will be finished meeting with your client. Make sure to contact your buddy when you have finished a showing.

It’s also best to meet new clients in a public setting before agreeing to a private showing. This gives you an additional opportunity to vet them.

A proactive approach significantly reduces the possibility of threat. Review safety precautions and policies on a regular basis and update your emergency contacts. If caught in an unsafe situation, immediately contact the proper authorities based on the severity of the circumstance.

REALTOR^® safety resources

• AREA safety app (free to download and will alert police immediately to your location)
• CREA REALTOR^® Safety
• NAR REALTOR^® Safety

If you have any additional questions on REALTOR^® safety, please contact CREB^® Member Practice at mp@creb.ca or 403-781-1336.