Current Headlines

July 2009

ABoR has recently received reports of suspicious behavior affecting our REALTOR® community

ABoR has recently received reports of suspicious behavior affecting our REALTOR® community. One member filed a police report after receiving suspicious calls from a local hotel about a lease listing. The REALTOR® involved says that the caller insisted on being picked up at the hotel. When she didn’t comply, our member received a threatening voice mail message. We also received reports that two Georgetown agents have encountered strange behavior when showing properties to a prospective client. 

 

Your safety is important to us. We urge all members to take the following safety precautions when conducting business:

• Hold initial meetings at your office

 

• Obtain copies of your prospective client’s driver’s license and record their vehicle’s license plate number

 

• Attend open houses with a partner

 

• Call law enforcement when you encounter suspicious activity

 

• Be aware of your surroundings

 

For more safety tips, visit:  http://www.abor.com/pdf/SafetyFlyer.pdf  To participate in an ongoing discussion about safety in the REALTOR® community, visit: http://communities.abor.com/COP/SafetyAlerts.

 

Austin Police Charge Woman for Stealing Medication on House Tours

Austin police arrested Janet Hilton on April 23 and charged her with burglary of a habitation. Police say Hilton gained access to prescription medications when visiting homes during open houses and escorted on private home tours with unknowing real estate agents.

 

According to one detective, open houses and private showings are a prime target for drug abusers seeking prescription drugs. The Austin Board of REALTORS® and Austin Police Department urge all REALTORS® to request identification before showing properties. Be particularly cautious of individuals who are unable or unwilling to provide proof of identity. If you have information concerning Hilton and a theft, please contact Det. M. Woodfin at 512-974-8692.  Visit our online Learning Communities to discuss safety tips with your fellow REALTORS®. 

 

For more REALTOR® safety tips, visit the Texas Association of REALTORS® Web site.