A Rhode Island REALTOR® reported in mid-October that a Level III Sex Offender had visited her open house. Fortunately, another person was in the home at the time, so the REALTOR® was not harmed.  After reporting the incident, the REALTOR® learned that the same offender had visited other womens’ open houses in southeastern Massachusetts.

This is a good reminder to update or create your own safety checklist.  While no solution is perfect, there are many ways to reduce your risks when holding open houses, showing property or meeting with new clients.  Check with your brokerage and/or team to see what procedures are in place.  Make sure that a colleague, friend or family member knows where you are.  You can check the Rhode Island Sex Offender Registry  and access these safety resources from the National Association of REALTORS®:  REALTOR® Safety - Rhode Island Association of REALTORS®.

Trust your instincts and establish safety procedures in advance.  For more information, contact the RIAR Legal Department [email protected].