Yesterday's daily Patch reports that a woman walked into the local police house to report that she had been duped by someone, a lady, claiming to be a Realtor. Apparently this women got into her home and walked off with a chest.
My first thought is that it sounds just crazy. But is it?
I often get calls from folks I don't know who invite me into their homes to do a market analysis or a consult. In fact my business depends on it!
In 25 years, I have never been asked to show an ID. In lieu of that, I always hand my new prospective client a business card. Unlike most Realtors, I no longer bother to have a photo on my business card and rather use our logo in place of that.
It drives me crazy when I see cards that don't remotely resemble the person that holds them. I mean really with my every changing hair style, the natural aging process and, yup, I hate to say it, weight fluctuation, one might not recognize the person on the card to be me anyway! So that being said, I guess the homeowner is taking a leap of faith that it is in fact me.
So, why wouldn't some crafty thief gain entry into someones home posing as a Realtor just to pick them off? Realtors are typically welcomed into "strangers" homes. It does sound a bit crazy doesn't it?
After all, imagine someone gaining entry into a home pretending to be a Realtor. That homeowner would have an easy time giving the PoPo a description of the perp. I mean I can't imagine anyone letting a "Realtor" with a ski mask covering their face into their home! I am guessing that one wouldn't be able to hide the "get a way" car either. In our neck of the woods, a real estate professional will pull right up to the home. Anyone on foot would probably set up a red flag or two.
Seems to me it gaining access to a home to rip someone off in this way is a bit risky with promise of little gain.
Of course I joke a bit, but you should always protect yourself.
If you are worried or concerned, ask for an ID. We are happy to show you one!! :) Just promise not to look to close at that date of birth!
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About the author
Carol-Ann Palmieri is a full time Real Estate professional in Massachusetts for the past 25 years along with her partner Al Mussi have helped literally hundreds of families find, sell or purchase new places to live.
Carol-Ann Palmieri is a full time Real Estate professional in Massachusetts for the past 25 years along with her partner Al Mussi have helped literally hundreds of families find, sell or purchase new places to live.
A former US Marine, she grew up in Walpole, MA... is committed to the serving the community through various volunteer opportunities. She attended MA Bay Community and Suffolk University and is committed to constantly updating her Real Estate education.
Al and Cal Licensed in MA and RI...
Al and Cal's primary areas of service Franklin, Bellingham, Medway, Millis, Medfield, Norfolk, Wrentham, Plainville, Blackstone, Walpole, Milford, Holliston, Hopkinton, Mansfield, and Foxboro, North Attleboro, Norwood, Hopedale, Mendon, Millville but have resourses to help anyone, anywhere....
Their mission.... To exceed your expectations!
Carol-Ann Palmieri
Al and Cal Realty Group
508-494-9061
