In Memoriam: A Renewed Call for Agent Safety

The tragic 2019 murder of Minneapolis real estate agent Monique Baugh is a case that has once again come to the forefront of our minds, as the mastermind behind the crime was recently convicted for a second time.

This development serves as a somber reminder of the potential dangers real estate professionals face. Our hearts go out to Monique's family, friends, and the entire real estate community who are reliving this painful event.

As you will see in the video above, the details of this case are a stark illustration of the vulnerabilities in our profession. In honor of Monique's memory, this article will build upon the context provided in the video, focusing on proactive safety measures and best practices that every agent can adopt to protect themselves.

Prioritizing Safety: A Proactive Approach

The nature of a real estate agent's job often requires meeting unknown individuals in various locations, which can create vulnerabilities. By adopting a proactive and safety-conscious mindset, agents can significantly reduce these risks. The following table outlines key safety protocols that every real estate professional should integrate into their daily business practices.

Client Verification	Always meet new clients at your office or a public place for the initial meeting. Verify their identity by asking for a photo ID and have them fill out a client information form. Trust your instincts; if a potential client is hesitant to provide this information, it could be a red flag.
Share Your Schedule	Before heading to a showing, share your itinerary with a colleague, friend, or family member. This should include the property address, the client's name, and the estimated time of the appointment. Use a shared calendar or a safety app that can track your location.
Daylight Showings	Whenever possible, schedule showings during daylight hours. Well-lit properties and neighborhoods offer better visibility and a greater sense of security. If an evening showing is unavoidable, ensure the property is well-lit and inform your safety contact of the after-hours appointment.
Strategic Positioning	During a showing, always let the client lead the way. By walking behind them, you maintain a clear line of sight and avoid being cornered in a room. Be aware of all exits and keep a safe distance.
Avoid Vacant Listings	Refrain from advertising a property as “vacant” in your marketing materials. This can attract unwanted attention and signal that the property is an easy target. Use neutral language that focuses on the property's features without disclosing its occupancy status.
Personal Information	Be mindful of the personal information you share online and in person. Use a separate business phone number and email address. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash, which could make you a target for theft.

The Power of Preparation and Awareness

Beyond these core protocols, a general state of heightened awareness is crucial. Before a showing, take the time to familiarize yourself with the property's layout and the surrounding neighborhood. Park your car in a well-lit area on the street rather than in the driveway to ensure a quick and unobstructed exit if needed.

Technology can also be a powerful ally. A wide range of smartphone apps provide safety features, such as panic buttons that can discreetly alert emergency contacts and share your GPS location. Smartwatches also offer similar functionalities. Keeping your phone fully charged is a simple yet critical step in ensuring these tools are available when you need them most.

A Commitment to Safety

The tragic death of Monique Baugh is a devastating loss that has deeply affected the real estate community. While we cannot change the past, we can and must learn from it. By making safety a top priority, we honor her memory and take a crucial step toward protecting all real estate professionals.

Let us all commit to a culture of safety and vigilance. Share these tips with your colleagues, discuss safety protocols in your brokerage, and never hesitate to prioritize your well-being over a potential sale. Your safety is non-negotiable.

What is your safety protocol? Share it in the comments below or with a colleague in an upcoming CE Class!

Sign Up Now

References

The Close. (2025, August 29). 15 Realtor Safety Tips That Could Save Your Life.

National Association of REALTORS®. (n.d.). Safety.

KARE 11. (2025, November 4). Man found guilty in murder of Minneapolis realtor [Video]. YouTube.