REAL TipS: Selling

Safety tips for home sellers

If you’re selling your house, there are some safety tips you should be aware of to keep yourself and others safe during the process. The fact is, whether you’re using the services of a Texas REALTOR® or have decided to attempt selling your home on your own, you are leaving yourself open to a parade of strangers walking through your house. The vast majority of homebuyers are safe, honest people, but you should take some security measures for the rare possibility that one person could see your home as an opportunity to commit a crime.

• Never leave a message on your answering machine telling callers you are not at home.
• Never set an appointment with anyone to see your home unless you have their name and number and have called back to verify that number.
• Remember to remove keys, credit cards, jewelry, and other valuables from the home or lock them away during open houses.
• Never discuss your personal schedule or habits with potential buyers.
• Carry a mobile phone with you in case you need to make a call to the authorities or to emergency personnel.
• After an open house, check all the windows, doors, and other entrances to make sure they are locked.

These tips are to help you stay safe while selling your home. If you do choose to enlist the services of a Texas REALTOR®, your agent will put you and your family’s safety above all else. Talk to your REALTOR® about other tips for selling your home safely.

Texas Association of Realtors®