Striking the Balance: How Real Estate Agents Navigate Politeness and Safety in a Risky World

Potential home buyers want to work with real estate agents who are open, honest, and friendly. But when predators pose as potential clients, agents have to remain aware at the same time. 

No one wants to believe that potential clients have the wrong intentions. But no one wants to add their name to the list of real estate agents who became victims due to their trusting nature. And it’s hard to be successful when you work in fear.

How can you balance politeness and vigilance when you are working with strangers? Here are some ways to do your job well while also looking out for your safety in a professional manner.

Set Clear Boundaries

When you begin engaging with a client, it’s essential to maintain clear communication and set expectations from the start. Be sure to let them know the days and times you’re available and your preferred method of communication.

In the event that they contact you outside of the established hours, just wait until you’re back within the agreed timeframe to respond. By being open and upfront about your communication preferences, you can foster a more efficient and pleasant working relationship with your clients.

Staying consistent with your boundaries helps maintain a professional and respectful atmosphere in which you can do business and keep yourself safe. Bending your rules to answer a call or respond to an email can send an inconsistent message by showing people that you will allow them to bend and even break your boundaries.

Remember, being professional and being an overly-accommodating agent are not the same thing. Clients want you to respect their time and privacy, and you should accept nothing less than the same for yourself.

Use Open and Assertive Communication

Assertive communication is not the same as aggressive communication. Clearly expressing yourself helps the client understand your point of view without leaving room for them to misinterpret what you are saying. If they suggest meeting in a place or at a time you aren’t comfortable with, you are within your rights to suggest other options that make you feel more comfortable.

There is nothing wrong with saying that you cannot meet without giving a long explanation. Instead, offer other options that are more conducive to your schedule and preferences. When you decline their option and give them a few suggestions, they can choose from your list, which can help you stick to your preferences while giving them a choice. 

Keep it Professional

You can be friendly with potential clients without disclosing personal information that could compromise your safety. Rather than discussing your personal life, routines, or residence, put the focus on the properties, neighborhoods, and real estate matters that are relevant to your clients’ wants and needs. 

Politely redirecting the conversation back to the professional aspects of the transactional relationship and away from any personal inquiries helps to let clients know where your focus lies—helping them find the perfect property.

As an agent, it’s important to create trust when working with potential clients. But being polite does not mean you have to compromise your safety in the process. Use respectful language, remain attentive to their needs within your original boundaries, and address questions or concerns promptly.

By setting boundaries, practicing assertive communication, trusting your instincts, maintaining professionalism, and using discretion with personal information, you can navigate the balance between staying safe and being polite as a real estate agent. 

If you are interested in learning more about real estate agent safety and preparedness, I encourage you to read my book, Not Today Predator, and host a safety workshop for your brokerage. Together, we can empower agents and create a safer environment for everyone in the industry.