The Buddy System?

A filmmaker in Canada has begun work on a new project called "House for Sale," which will highlight the proper precautions necessary for real estate agents to take to avoid and even escape the inherent dangers of the profession.

Robin Webb is well-known for his films about social safety, and he has made feature-length films and documentary miniseries alike. "House for Sale" will be a made-for-TV movie and will present what many agents have already called a controversial idea: "Don't show a house alone."

Webb formerly helped develop a safety program for the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board in the 1980s, so his interest in protecting real estate agents is long-running and genuine, so I personally wonder why real estate agents are not heeding his advice. According to this article from the Times Colonist, Webb said real estate agents were "sincere and genuine" as he presented this particular idea, but they ultimately said they wouldn't practice it.

I'm not a real estate agent; I don't have a license and I know more about online media and journalism than I do the ins and outs of real estate. I have been working with Brian Wilson since October 2007 and continue to learn much about the industry and its intricacies and nuances, but I don't think I need to be a real estate professional to understand the benefit of a buddy system when showing houses.

Why | risk | it?

You're alone. With someone you likely don't know very well. You're giving them the benefit of the doubt. But still.

Why would real estate agents object to this idea? Is it an issue of time (can't realistically have someone meet up with you for every appointment)? Money (can't afford to pay someone for their time - Webb even suggests using a taxi and having the driver wait outside)? Impracticality?

So I am asking you, the professionals: would you use a buddy system? Why or why not? Maybe you do already, or you know someone who does? Do they regret it?

Why is this idea controversial?

-Christopher Zabka