Security is often an afterthought when selling a home, but it should be a priority, says Fidelity ADT.
This is because a show day can present serious safety concerns for residents and estate agents, says marketing and communications manager Charnel Hattingh.
Incidents have, in the past, been reported in which criminals posed as buyers and gained easy access to properties. To avoid this, Hattingh says it is important for sellers to meet their agents and be firm about the arrangements they want in place to safeguard their properties and ensure residents’ and agents’ safety.
“If someone stands in for your agent on show day, they should also be in the loop on safety arrangements.”
She says: “It’s also a good idea to let your security company know ahead of time that your home will be on show.”
Hattingh’s show day advice includes:
◆ Lock away or take with you any spare keys and valuables that are small enough to fit into a pocket or handbag.
◆ Store large, expensive items in a cupboard that locks and make sure rooms are well-lit.
◆ Agents need to keep the panic button on hand at all times while taking potential buyers around the home.
◆ If possible, show your home only by appointment.