AN open day is a great way of introducing a home that is up for sale to prospective buyers, however, it does present serious safety concerns for whomever is showing the property.
In recent months, there have been reports in the media of thieves who have posed as buyers to gain easy access to properties.
“Sellers and agents should take precaution when preparing for and hosting show houses. While you cannot plan for every eventuality, it’s important that you discuss any security concerns either of you may have,” said Martin Kriel, managing director of ADT Security East Coast Region.
He said ahead of the show day people should meet with their agent.
“Be firm about the arrangements you want in place to safeguard your property and to ensure their safety. If someone will stand-in for your agent on show day, insist on meeting them and explain the safety arrangements to them as well. Inform your security company that your home will be on show. Ask them to have armed response stop by randomly during the open-house to check that everything is in order,” said Kriel.
On the day, Kriel said homeowners should lock away any spare keys for entry and exit doors or the garage and other valuables that are small enough to fit into a pocket or handbag, or take them with them.
“Store large, expensive items in a cupboard that locks. Make sure rooms are well-lit by keeping the blinds or curtains open and, where necessary, the lights on. Agents should encourage viewings on show day by appointment only. This way, groups of visitors will be easier to handle. They should consider having an assistant on the day who can receive prospective buyers while you are taking others around the property,” he said.
Kriel said, if possible, agents should position their assistant near the front door or a front window so that they can write down the make, model and registration numbers of viewers’ vehicles.
“If you are alone, never leave the front entrance to the house open while you are showing the home. Don’t be shy to ask that your visitors stay with you throughout the viewing; this could avoid a situation in which someone wanders off unsupervised,” said Kriel.
