Agents - you are being watched

23 Dec 2014| Posted by: Geoff Baldwin

Although few agents have anything to hide all should be aware that an increasing number of sellers may have them under surveillance during inspections and home opens according to RE/MAX WA Managing Director, Geoff Baldwin. "With basic CCV cameras being so affordable and available from electrical stores property owners are purchasing them so that they can check their homes remotely when they are at work or anytime they are away. "Rarely would a property owner specifically arrange a surveillance device to spy on their agent but there are now cameras with audio installed in an increasing number of homes so this is another reason for industry personnel to ensure professionalism at all times. "One of our offices recently listed a property that had been on the market with another company for several months and, in discussion it became obvious that the owner had been watching and listening in on conversations between the agent and prospective buyers during inspections. "The property owner commented that she was disappointed with the content of discussions between her agent and viewers during inspections and when questioned as to how she knew she divulged that she had a camera and microphone installed so that she could keep an eye on her dog whilst at work. "With technology readily available and with people using it at an increasing rate agents need to not only be aware of the fact that they may be being watched but to expect it and act professionally at all times", Mr Baldwin said.