During September, Realtors® across the country took part in trainings and programming to ensure they are keeping not only themselves, but their clients safe in every step of a real estate transaction.
Buying or selling a home is one of the largest financial transactions a person will ever make. While it can be an exciting time, it also involves various risks that can impact both finances and personal safety. Realtors® play a critical role in safeguarding their clients throughout the process acting as more than just a guide.
One of the key ways Realtors® help keep clients safe is by navigating the legal and financial intricacies of real estate transactions. Without their expertise, buyers and sellers easily can fall into traps such as signing unfavorable contracts or accepting illegitimate offers.
Realtors® are trained to identify potential red flags that could put clients at risk. By performing due diligence and negotiating on behalf of their clients, they ensure that buyers and sellers are well-protected from fraud or financial loss.
Client safety extends beyond the bounds of financial security — physical safety is also a concern when viewing properties or opening your home. These experts help vet neighborhoods, owners and properties, ensuring that clients are not walking into unsafe situations.
Before showing a property, Realtors® typically conduct inspections, confirming that homes meet safety codes and are free of major issues. When selling a home, they ensure that prospective buyers are pre-screened, and that showings are scheduled in a controlled manner.
Realtors® often use lockboxes with unique codes to limit access to the property, and stay present during showings to deter any potential bad actors.
In today’s digital climate, real estate transactions have become grounds for scams. From phishing emails to wire fraud, there are numerous ways that criminals target buyers and sellers.
The Prescott Area Association of REALTORS® provides resources for our members to protect their clients, ranging from lockboxes to education on best practices. The Arizona Department of Real Estate has also put in place new licensee renewal requirements. Starting in 2025, all Realtors® renewing their licenses will need to take courses on current issues including deed-fraud, Arizona water usage and fire safety.
