09/24/2024
Important Message from OACIQ 🚩
Member Safety Awareness
Dear members,
It has come to our attention that one of our members was unfortunately the victim of a serious physical assault during a recent showing.
The broker found herself alone with someone posing as an unrepresented potential buyer. The intervention of the homeowner returning to the property caused the suspect to flee. Emergency services were immediately contacted. We want to reassure you that the broker received prompt care and is now out of danger. Our thoughts are with the victim and her loved ones, and we offer them our full support.
The assailant was arrested within hours of the incident. The police confirmed that this was an isolated incident and not a common crime.
This unfortunate situation serves as a reminder of the importance of safety as members carry out their duties. We would like to share five practical tips to help keep you safe.
1. Know who you are dealing with
Ask prospective buyers for their prequalification before agreeing to a property visit.
If a client asks to meet you at a property, take note of their phone number.
2. Ensure your personal safety
Inform someone of your whereabouts: who is with you, your destination, the expected time of your return, etc.
Ideally, do not allow your client to ride in your vehicle.
If you need to park in a parking lot or along the street, make sure no vehicle blocks your exit.
3. Your cell phone: safety at your fingertips
Keep your cell phone within reach at all times and ensure it is fully charged.
Set up speed dial numbers for emergencies and agree on a distress code with a close contact.
4. Ensure your safety during property viewings
Do not announce that the residence is vacant.
Never walk ahead of your clients into a room when visiting a house. Follow them so that you are never caught off guard.
Plan escape routes from each floor.
5. Do not share too much personal information
Be cautious about how much personal information you share with your clients.
Avoid talking about your children or family, where you live, or your upcoming plans.
The QPAREB team
qpareb.ca
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990, avenue Holland, Québec (Québec) G1S 3T1
600, chemin du Golf, L'Île-des-Soeurs (Québec) H3E 1A8
72, rue Jacques-Cartier O, bureau 20, Chicoutimi (Québec) G7J 1G2
1 888 762-2440 | [email protected]
The QPAREB is the undisputed representative of professional real estate brokerage in Quebec. The Association brings together more than 92 per cent of professional real estate brokers who are active in 80 per cent of the province’s territory, and has more than 700 real estate agencies.
