Viewing a home safely

iSold is committed to making viewings as simple and safe as possible. After all, you want to feel reassured when meeting someone unknown. There are various steps we've taken to ensure our service is secure, as well as provide tips on how you can safeguard yourself.

Communicating and arranging viewings safely

All prospective buyers are vetted by iSold first. We ask for personal information which is then verified against a central database, confirming the individual's identity and that they live at the address they have given.

Personal safety tips for buyers and sellers

Here are a few simple common sense guidelines to protect your personal safety.

• Try to arrange viewings during daylight hours. It's not only safer but it also means the buyer will get a more accurate picture of the property's condition.
• Neither buyers nor sellers should attend viewings alone. Ask your partner, a friend or family member to be with you.
• If you can't get anyone to accompany you, let someone know the time of the viewing and the address. Arrange to contact them at a designated time so that they know you are safe. Plan for what they should do if you fail to call at the appointed time.
• If you are a buyer, make sure you've planned how to get to and from your viewing safely. If you are driving, try to park as close to the property as possible (and in good lighting).
• Trust your instincts. When you arrive at the property, quickly assess the situation. If you don't feel comfortable entering a home, make an excuse to go. Then leave confidently.
• As you enter, make a note of escape routes and how doors open so that you can leave in an emergency. Be careful not to allow exits to become blocked.
• Take a friendly but professional approach. Avoid getting too familiar in case it gives out the wrong message. Try to look confident and in control.
• If you can, carry a mobile phone and forewarn at least one person of a code word that you will use if you get into trouble. Make sure they know what to do next if you use it.
• Have a personal alarm to hand and know how to use it. Personal alarms should be used to shock and disorientate an attacker and shouldn't be relied upon to get help.
• If you're interested in the property, don't give out your contact details to the seller. Any communication or offers can be made after the viewing through the iSold online messaging system.

For more information about personal safety, please visit the Suzy Lamplugh Trust website.