Secure Your Open Houses: A REALTOR®’s Guide to Safety 

Hosting an open house is a valuable opportunity to showcase a property, connect with potential buyers, and generate new leads—but it also requires thoughtful attention to safety. Open houses invite the public into a private space, which means agents and homeowners must take proactive steps to protect people, property, and personal information. The following best practices are designed to help REALTORS® host open houses confidently, professionally, and securely while creating a welcoming experience for all visitors.

1. Secure Valuables and Personal Items – Before the open house, advise homeowners to secure their valuables. Jewelry, electronics, cash, and personal items should be locked away or removed from the property entirely. Don’t forget to check bedrooms for piggy banks, small safes, medications, etc. Firearms should be locked safely away or removed from the property entirely.

Even seemingly harmless items like mail or prescription medications can contain sensitive information that should be kept out of sight. By securing valuables, you help prevent theft and protect your clients’ privacy. 

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2. Greet Every Visitor – Make it a point to greet each visitor as they arrive. This not only sets a welcoming tone but also allows you to establish a presence at the event. When visitors know they’ve been noticed and acknowledged, it can deter any potential wrongdoing. Greeting everyone who enters also gives you a chance to gauge their behavior and intentions. 

3. Use a Sign-In Sheet – A sign-in sheet that captures visitors’ contact information serves multiple purposes. First, it allows you to follow up with potential buyers after the open house. Second, it creates a record of who visited the property, which can be helpful in case of any issues or concerns. Consider asking for a name, phone number, and email address. If visitors are hesitant to sign in, explain that it’s a standard safety practice for both the homeowners and yourself.  You may also consider a digital sign-in option, such as a QR code or mobile form, which can streamline follow-up and reduce paperwork.

Click here for a editable Canva sign-in sheet template

4. Stay Visible and Avoid Secluded Areas – As the host of the open house, it’s important to stay visible and avoid being alone in isolated areas of the property. Stick to common areas where you can keep an eye on multiple visitors at once. If a visitor requests to see a secluded part of the home, like the basement or attic, accompany them but allow them to go first and always maintain a safe distance. If possible, bring a colleague along to help manage the event, providing an extra set of eyes and an added layer of security. 

Utilizing available safety and identity verification tools can provide additional peace of mind before, during, and after the event.

5. Limit Access to Certain Areas – If there are rooms or spaces within the home that are off-limits, clearly communicate that to visitors. You can use signs or physically block access to these areas. Limiting access helps you manage the flow of people and ensures that visitors don’t wander into places they shouldn’t be. 

6. Be Mindful of Group Dynamics – When multiple visitors arrive at the same time, it can be challenging to monitor everyone. Pay attention to group dynamics and avoid getting distracted by one person or group while others are left unattended. If the open house becomes too crowded to manage on your own, consider scheduling a follow-up showing or bringing in additional help to assist with the event. 

7. Trust Your Instincts – As the hosting agent, you have the authority to set boundaries and end the event if necessary. If something feels off, don’t ignore it. Trust your instincts and take appropriate action. If a visitor’s behavior raises red flags, you may want to ask them to leave or politely end the open house early. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your safety and the security of the property. 

8. Prepare an Emergency Plan – Although the odds of an emergency during an open house are low, it’s crucial to be prepared. Have a plan for any unexpected situations, such as knowing the location of all exits and keeping your phone within easy reach. Simple steps like backing into the driveway to avoid being blocked in can also enhance your safety. Share your schedule with a colleague or family member and inform them of the open house’s end time. If possible, arrange for someone to check in with you periodically to ensure everything is proceeding smoothly.

Hosting an open house can be a rewarding experience, but it’s essential to stay vigilant and take steps to secure both yourself and the property. By greeting visitors, securing valuables, and using a sign-in sheet, you can create a safe environment for everyone involved. Remember, your safety and the safety of your clients come first. Taking these precautions will help ensure that your open house is not only successful but also secure.