5 Easy Ways to Avoid Getting in Trouble

There are so many things that we do every day that could have unintended consequences. Recently, there have been themes to those actions and a seemingly minor issue is becoming something more. Here are few easy things that you should never do in real estate.

1. Never Give Out Lock Box Codes-- With more short sale and REO properties on the market, there has been a resurgence of the combo lock lockboxes. NEVER GIVE OUT THE CODE TO CLIENTS OR CUSTOMERS.

It sounds so simple! If you tell your customer or client, "Yeah, that house has a combo lock on it. I can't meet you right now, so just let yourself in. The code is 1-2-3." you have just opened yourself up. You may be liable if anything happens to that property. Your client may take things, break things, or do something to the property. You don't need that on your record or your conscience. If you can't meet them right at that moment, either reschedule or arrange for another agent to tour the property with them. Maybe ask the listing agent to open the property for them. Giving them the code is the easy thing - but it doesn't make it the right thing.

2. Never Use Someone Else's Photos on a Listing Without Asking First-- Photos are subject to copyright laws. If you take the photos from an old MLS listing and post them as yours, you may find yourself explaining it to a judge. If you want to use another agent's photos, get their permission before posting. If your seller provides the photos, ask your seller who took the photos. Just because the seller has a copy of it doesn't necessarily mean they have ownership of the copyrights. Digital cameras are so prevalent in today's society, a moment or two of your time to take some new photos now may save you a headache later.

3. Always Call Before Showing-- A common courtesy typically extended to each other as professionals, it helps to avoid miscommunications and angry sellers. Just because there is a lockbox on the property doesn't necessarily mean that you have unrestricted access. If you arrive unannounced, you risk confrontation and possible embarrassment in front of your customer or client.

Additionally, calling before you show a property can be a great benefit to you and your client if the property is no longer available. If the listing agent hasn't had an opportunity to update the status on the MLS yet, it is possible you would be showing a property to your client that isn't actually available. That is a waste of time and resources for both you and your client. A simple phone call or email could clear that up quickly.

4. Never Give Out Login Information-- Your membership and access to listing information is a valuable part of your service as a real estate professional. Giving this information out to clients, customers, and random family members devalues your profession and you as a professional.

It allows folks outside the industry to gain information that they have no need to know. It gives them access to commission information, sensitive information such as the contact information for sellers, and a history of everything that has occurred on a property. Show pride in your industry and protect the information.

5. Always Ask the Question "Is this in the best interest of my client?"-- If that answer comes up as a 'no', then you need to re-evaluate the actions you are taking. As a service provider, your clients interests are primary - not to the point where you would treat another party dishonestly- but you need to ensure that you are serving and protecting your client.

Just taking a moment to reflect before you act can save you time, money, and headaches! And it may lead to better client satisfaction, better colleague interaction, and ultimately, a more successful career!

Good luck, have heart, and go Broncos!