Selling a home is an exciting time for your client. Unfortunately, it can also make them a target for would-be thieves.
But brokers can use this time to remind clients of ways to protect their home before handing over the keys to a purchaser.
“As a first step, be sure to do a thorough check on your realtor,” says Alex Walker, director of claims relations for
RSA Canada. “Find out if they are known in the area, and whether you have a family member, a friend, colleague or neighbour who has used them before. When meeting with your potential realtor, ask them to provide specific details for how they will show your residence.”
It’s important to remind your client to understand the difference between a
general and an
agent open house, if they choose to have one.
“If they are going to have an open house the realtor should understand that there is an expectation that the premises will be kept safe and secure at all times” says Walker. “Urge your client to review any contracts carefully, be sure to determine if the contract has the realtor responsible for lost or stolen items during an open house.”
Clients who plan to hold an open house should be encouraged to ask their realtor exactly how they are going to accompany potential buyers through their home, says Walker, and that an open house sign on their property can peak thieves’ interest.
“Some clever would-be thieves will pose as potential purchasers interested in your property,” says Walker. “It is possible that they could operate in groups during an open house as it is easier to draw away a realtor or create a diversion.”
Brokers should advise their clients to let them know when their home is up for sale, as they may need additional coverage and selling a home or building requires notification to your insurance company.
Walker provides the following additional tips to share with clients to help protect their property during the sale process:
- Ask the realtor to avoid floor damage by having people remove shoes and boots during viewings.
- Care should be taken to ensure all valuable jewelry, family heirlooms, photos and cash are safely stored off-site. A safety deposit box may be the best place for them.
- Remind clients to lock up portable devices such as mobile phones and tablets or take them out of the home, and ensure their computers are password-protected.
- Breakable objects need to be out of the way of visitors, with figurines and fine china stored in a cabinet or cupboard.
- Clients who have indoor pets need to plan ahead before strangers walk around the home. Some cats and dogs can easily be frightened, or become aggressive.
- Some clients prefer to leave on vacation or are already moved in their new home, which means that the realtor really needs to be on their toes to ensure that timers are set to switch lights on and off, so the house has a lived-in feel.
“A few precautions can go a long way in avoiding a thief in the home during the sale process,” says Walker. “Then, your client can focus on having a positive experience as they move to a new step in their life after selling their current home.”
