Simple Habits That Protect Real Estate Agents on the Job
Whether you’re showing a home, hosting an open house, or meeting a new client for the first time, personal safety should always come first. Real estate agents often work alone, meet unfamiliar people in unpredictable settings, and enter vacant homes—making situational awareness, self-defense skills, and proactive habits essential parts of the job.
That’s why more agents are turning to Krav Maga and martial arts training to stay safe on the job. Even basic self-defense techniques can help professionals boost their confidence and prepare for the unexpected.
At America’s Best Defense, we take this issue seriously. In fact, Sensei Jason Pan, Head Instructor of our Kids Martial Arts program at ABD Franklin, is also a licensed real estate agent. In June 2025, ABD Shrewsbury hosted a Realtor Safety Seminar in partnership with Bill Murphy (Branch Manager at Fairway Independent Mortgage) and Flynn Law and Alioth Title, featuring insights from ABD student Jenn Holland, a licensed real estate agent with Andrew Abu Realtors.
The seminar focused on real-world safety strategies, from how to control the flow of foot traffic at open houses to using Krav Maga principles in high-stress scenarios.
As Sensei Pan noted, “One class might help—but training consistently is what builds real skill and confidence.”
Whether you’re brand new to the business or a seasoned agent, here are 10 essential personal safety tips every real estate professional should know—because no property is worth risking your life.
Our Top Personal Safety Tips for Realtors
1. Pre-Screen All Clients
Always verify a client’s identity before meeting in person. Use a secure process to collect full name, phone number, and a copy of a photo ID. Trust your gut—if anything feels off, reschedule or bring someone with you.
2. Meet in Public First
When working with new clients, meet for the first time at your office or a public location. It sets a professional tone and gives you a chance to assess your comfort level before heading into more private settings.
3. Let Someone Know Your Plans
Always tell a colleague, friend, or family member where you’re going, who you’re meeting, and when you expect to return. Use a safety app or share your live location when possible.
4. Stay Aware During Showings
Arrive early to scout the home and plan escape routes. Avoid basements, small spaces, or letting someone walk behind you. Keep your phone in hand and keys easily accessible.
5. Limit Personal Information
Keep your personal and family life private. Avoid oversharing online or in conversations with clients. Never advertise that you’re working alone.
6. Control the Environment at Open Houses
If you’re hosting an open house, bring a colleague or staff member. Lock up valuables, check rooms before and after, and keep doors unlocked during the event for quick exits.
“Some say leaving another opening like an escape route is smart but it can also backfire,” says Sensei Pan. “An example of this is a house that has a garage. (If) you leave the garage open so you can leave through the garage, that also gives a potential threat access to the house without the agent knowing. I’d recommend knowing where all exits are but have only one entrance so you can track who comes in and who goes out.”
7. Watch What You Wear
While dressing professionally is important, avoid wearing expensive jewelry or anything that draws attention to your belongings. Opt for attire that allows you to move quickly if needed.
8. Trust Your Instincts
If something feels wrong, it probably is. Don’t be afraid to end a showing or cancel a meeting. Your safety matters more than a potential sale.
9. Keep Your Car Ready
Park in well-lit, visible spots. Keep your car fueled and unlocked while actively showing a home. Back in for a faster getaway if needed.
10. Take a Self-Defense Class
Self-defense training for real estate agents builds confidence and preparedness.
“I often meet clients in vacant homes, host open houses alone, and travel to unfamiliar neighborhoods,” says Holland. “These everyday parts of the job can also carry unexpected safety risks—and that’s why self-defense training has become an essential part of my routine.
Our Krav Maga self-defense programs are designed for everyday professionals like real estate agents, focusing on real-world scenarios—including situational awareness, verbal tactics, and physical defense techniques tailored for workplace safety.
“Like in real estate, consistency is key,” Sensei Pan says. “Taking one self-defense class might help but training consistently is what will help especially with confidence and skill.”
Ready to Feel Safer in the Field?
Real estate is all about building trust, but that doesn’t mean letting your guard down. These small habits add up to big peace of mind.
Want to feel more confident meeting new clients or working alone? Our Krav Maga classes focus on real-world self-defense skills, including situational awareness, threat assessment, and how to defend yourself if a situation turns physical.
Designed for everyday professionals—not just martial artists, Krav Maga at America’s Best Defense is practical, empowering, and beginner-friendly. It’s the ideal self-defense solution for real estate agents, business owners, and anyone who works one-on-one with clients.
Book your free Krav Maga intro class and take the first step toward a safer, stronger you.
