As a real estate professional with nearly 10 years of experience serving clients across the Triangle and Charlotte regions of North Carolina, I’ve seen firsthand how rewarding this industry can be—but I’ve also come to understand the hidden risks that can come with it. From vacant home showings to late-night appointments in unfamiliar areas, both agents and clients can find themselves in vulnerable situations more often than we’d like to admit.

The Real Risks Behind Real Estate Showings

You don’t have to dig deep to find stories that highlight the dangers of real estate work. Take Beverly Carter, for example—a REALTOR® from Arkansas who was tragically abducted and murdered in 2014 after meeting someone posing as a buyer. Her story still shakes our industry to its core.

More recently, in 2022, a female agent in Las Vegas was attacked after a suspect entered a model home she was showing. In another case, Texas Realtor was held at gunpoint in 2023 during an open house—thankfully, she survived, but it was a sobering reminder that safety must come first. Sadly, these are just a few examples.

According to the 2021 NAR Member Safety Report, 23% of REALTORS® said they had experienced a situation that made them fear for their safety. Even more alarming—5% said they had actually been a victim of a crime while on the job. That’s not just a statistic. That’s a wake-up call.

Safety Tips Every Buyer, Seller, and Agent Should Know

Whether you’re buying, selling, or representing clients, safety should always come first. Here are a few key practices to keep in mind:

  • Never meet a new client alone—verify their identity and meet in public first.
  • Use safety and location-sharing apps, such as Forewarn, ShowingTime or Homesnap Pro.
  • Let someone know your schedule, location, and expected time back.
  • Trust your gut—if something feels off, listen to it. Reschedule or bring someone with you.
  • Get trained to manage threats with awareness and confidence..

This brings me to something that changed everything for me: Jiu-Jitsu.

How Jiu-Jitsu Transformed My Confidence and Awareness

After reading about so many heartbreaking stories, I decided I needed real tools to protect myself. That’s when I discovered Jiu-Jitsu. It gave me the awareness and mental clarity to handle stressful situations—on and off the job.

Unlike other forms of self-defense, Jiu-Jitsu teaches calmness under pressure. It helps you manage close contact situations, stay grounded, and use technique over strength. I wasn’t just learning how to defend myself—I was learning how to think ahead, stay alert, and protect others around me too.

This isn’t about becoming a fighter. It’s about gaining the confidence to know you can protect yourself and de-escalate a threat if it arises. And as a real estate agent, that kind of awareness can be life-saving.

Why I Recommend The Jiu-Jitsu Exchange in Raleigh, NC

Once I committed to training, I wanted to learn from the best. That led me to The Jiu-Jitsu Exchange Academy in Raleigh, NC.

Here’s what makes them stand out:

  • A welcoming environment with zero ego
  • Instructors who meet you where you are—whether you’re brand new or experienced
  • A clear focus on building practical, effective skills

At The Jiu-Jitsu Exchange, their mission is simple: to give YOU the tools you need to feel confident in every position. Confidence doesn’t come from hype—it comes from success. And success comes from doing what works.

They guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re stepping on the mats for the first time or preparing for competition, their doors are open. Classes are tailored for all levels and all ages.

👉 Click here to learn more and schedule a personal consultation. Don’t wait until it’s too late—train today so you’re ready tomorrow.

Let’s Protect Each Other—Together

Whether you’re an agent, investor, or buyer, safety can’t be an afterthought. Make it part of your routine. Train your body. Train your mind. Build habits that protect your future.

I highly recommend that anyone in the real estate industry—especially women and solo professionals—try a class at The Jiu-Jitsu Exchange. You’ll walk out more aware, more confident, and far more prepared.

Want more safety tips, real estate market updates, and tools to navigate this industry with confidence?

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Stay alert. Stay strong. Stay safe.

— Jeremy