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Rainmaker
1,052,221
Candice A. Donofrio
Next Wave RE Investments LLC Bullhead City AZ Commercial RE Broker - Fort Mohave, AZ
928-201-4BHC (4242) call/text

The prime suspect in this murder is actually his former business partner, who had been a person of interest since he disappeared -- but yeah, we have to be very cautious.
Also, my understanding is that the couple he had shown property to have been ruled out. However I have it on good authority that somebody had been upset with him because he had sold them property without advising on the zoning uses. These people relied on his advice, moved across the country to the property and then found out that they could not use it. Another bad idea.

Jan 11, 2017 02:39 PM
Rainmaker
935,775
Elise Harron
Dirt Road Real Estate - Kingman, AZ
Rural Vacant Land and Development Specialist

Sid did not go to show a property - he met with his handiman, and had a disagreement about some stolen appliances and the handiman shot and killed him and dumped him in the desert.  The Handiman tried to kill himself about 6 months ago - he didn't succeed.  They put cuffs on him in a rehad center today and will be bringing him back here to Mohave County. 

The Handiman told the story that Sid had went to show a property - it was a lie.

Sid's family finally has closure.

All realtors should prescreen, protect your personal space alwasy and get trained and CARRY - cause it is not just your life you could save!

Jan 11, 2017 08:19 PM
Ambassador
2,684,109
Fred Griffin Florida Real Estate
Fred Griffin Real Estate - Tallahassee, FL
Licensed Florida Real Estate Broker

  Isn't Arizona an open-carry state?  Why would anyone, especially a Realtor, not be trained in the use of a firearm?

Jan 11, 2017 06:00 PM
Rainmaker
1,712,676
Joe Pryor
The Virtual Real Estate Team - Oklahoma City, OK
REALTOR® - Oklahoma Investment Properties

It very sad to see the repeat of Arkansas.

Jan 11, 2017 01:40 PM
Rainmaker
5,104,931
Nina Hollander, Broker
Coldwell Banker Realty - Charlotte, NC
Your Greater Charlotte Realtor

It's a good idea. Then again, I have never in 25 years run out alone to meet someone I don't know in a house by myself. That would take care of a lot of these problems.

Jan 12, 2017 03:56 AM
Rainmaker
577,750
Gloria Valvasori, Accredited Senior Agent
BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS REAL ESTATE SIGNATURE SERVICE - Mississauga, ON
REAL Experience | REAL Commitment | REAL Results!

I always make it a practice of meeting with new clients in my office first before taking anyone out.  I never take out a new client alone, I always have someone with me... I always give my daughter or my office the name and contact information I have for them (which I have already used) to reach them,  their licence plate, and where I will be with this client.

Jan 11, 2017 03:03 PM
Rainmaker
4,883,260
Richard Weeks
Dallas, TX
REALTOR®, Broker

Just the thought of making a commission causes some to throw caution to the wind.

Jan 11, 2017 02:03 PM
Rainmaker
5,772,575
Ron and Alexandra Seigel
Napa Consultants - Carpinteria, CA
Luxury Real Estate Branding, Marketing & Strategy

Jeff,

Heartbreaking story.  

Jan 11, 2017 02:36 PM
Rainmaker
1,844,301
Lyn Sims
Schaumburg, IL
Real Estate Broker Retired

Sad story. 

Jan 11, 2017 02:23 PM
Rainmaker
466,878
Katina Hargrove 352-551-0308
Stake Your Land Realty, Inc. - Eustis, FL
Broker/Owner, SFR®, e-PRO®, GRI, AHWD, REALTOR®

Jeff,

Thanks for the post, one must make sure the potential buyer is pre-approved and that the agent has spoken to the lender. No amount of money is worth the risk of someones life.

Jan 11, 2017 02:12 PM
Rainmaker
2,220,654
Anthony Acosta - ALLATLANTAcondos.com
Harry Norman, REALTORS® - Atlanta, GA
Associate Broker

So sad. We all need to be very careful. 

Jan 12, 2017 03:12 AM
Rainmaker
763,883
Tony Lewis
Summit Real Estate Group - Valencia, CA
Summit Real Estate Group Valencia & Aliso Viejo

I was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, a Vietnam era Veteran and ran a liquor store for twenty years.  I live in fear but don't allow it to dictate my life.  Things happen all the time.  We have no idea what lies beyond the corner.  Stories like this are like stories about a plane or car crash.  You can quit or take your chances.  How many Realtors made it home safely tonight.  God Bless this Realtor and his family but we go back to work tomorrow.

Jan 11, 2017 09:55 PM
Rainer
6,538
Kerrie Faris
LRS Realty and Management, Inc - Rancho Bernardo, CA

This is just a reminder to all of us that we all need a safety plan in place, I like Gloria's comment.

Jan 11, 2017 09:46 PM
Rainmaker
2,390,630
Bob "RealMan" Timm
Ward County Notary Services - Minot, ND
Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker

I'm glad Candice A. Donofrio gives us more on the story BUT it's important for us guys to realize that not all assaults on agents are sexual assaults against women agents.

Jan 11, 2017 06:16 PM
Rainmaker
4,572,439
Michael Jacobs
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena And Southern California 818.516.4393

Very sad story.  

Jan 11, 2017 04:36 PM
Ambassador
5,049,477
Jeff Dowler, CRS
eXp Realty of California, Inc. - Carlsbad, CA
The Southern California Relocation Dude

It's certainly a sad story and another wake-up call about being safe and using common sense, male OR female

Jan 11, 2017 03:55 PM
Rainmaker
4,319,419
Praful Thakkar
LAER Realty Partners - Andover, MA
Andover, MA: Andover Luxury Homes For Sale

Jeff Pearl - isn't it sad?

Jan 11, 2017 03:19 PM
Rainmaker
1,513,143
Raymond E. Camp
Ontario, NY

It is too bad most learn by hard knocks.

Jan 11, 2017 02:56 PM
Rainmaker
711,852
Lynnea Miller
Bend Premier Real Estate - Bend, OR
Premier Real Estate Service in Central Oregon

Never do this. If you haven't met the client before, arrange to meet them in the brokerage - and introduce them to several people prior to showing property.  How very, very sad.

Jan 11, 2017 02:25 PM
Rainmaker
1,503,008
Ryan Huggins - Thousand Oaks, CA
https://HugginsHomes.com - Thousand Oaks, CA
Residential Real Estate and Investment Properties

As a hiker who's done solo hikes and second date hikes, I know the value of filing a hiking plan with a buddy.  Where you are going, the route you plan on taking and the estimated return time.  I do the same when showing property.  I inform my broker where I'll be, who I'm with (even if all I have is a name and number) and when I expect to be done.  I also have training and take precautions.

Jan 12, 2017 11:19 AM
Rainmaker
4,936,716
Will Hamm
Hamm Homes - Aurora, CO
"Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"

Newbie need to know about this.  Thanks for getting the word out.

 

Jan 12, 2017 10:37 AM
Rainmaker
5,217,343
Wayne Martin
Wayne M Martin - Chicago, IL
Real Estate Broker - Retired

In today's society you can never be too careful!

Jan 12, 2017 06:44 AM
Rainmaker
716,049
Richard Bazinet /MBA, CRS, ABR
West USA Realty - Scottsdale, AZ
Phoenix Scottsdale. Sellers, Buyers & Relocations

OMG... that's in my Arizona. I always wondered what took place, and where this case was at. How sad this is... thank you for sharing. Yes, lets all practice safety first.

Jan 12, 2017 06:23 AM
Ambassador
2,178,703
Carol Williams
Although I'm retired, I love sharing my knowledge and learning from other real estate industry professionals. - Wenatchee, WA
Retired Agent / Broker / Prop. Mgr, Wenatchee, WA

Very Very Very sad!  In spite of the risks and warnings, many  REALTORS® often leave themselves vulnerable.  We can not stress enough how important it is to take EVERY possible precaution.   I'm still dumbfounded there aren't more policy precautions in place before showing property. 

Jan 12, 2017 06:19 AM
Rainmaker
921,504
Annette Lawrence , Palm Harbor, FL 727-420-4041
ReMax Realtec Group - Palm Harbor, FL
Making FLORIDA Real Estate EZ

There exists no such thing as 100% safe.

Even with Sasquatch present, bad things can happen, and I know that.

I just try to make bad not happen today. Should anarchy occur again, I trust the volume of my life story, the lives I have touched, inspires others for years to come.

Jan 12, 2017 05:27 AM
Rainmaker
2,182,552
Michael J. Perry
KW Elite - Lancaster, PA
Lancaster, PA Relo Specialist

Newbies need to be trained on how to do Buyer Consultations which is the first step in working with Buyers !(before you pour hrs. into a unqualified consumer).

Jan 12, 2017 05:25 AM
Rainmaker
5,583,278
Barbara Todaro
RE/MAX Executive Realty - Happily Retired - Franklin, MA
Previously Affiliated with The Todaro Team

that's a horrible story.... 

Jan 12, 2017 04:57 AM
Rainmaker
4,434,127
Gita Bantwal
RE/MAX Centre Realtors - Warwick, PA
REALTOR,ABR,CRS,SRES,GRI - Bucks County & Philadel

Scary

Jan 12, 2017 03:52 AM
Rainmaker
3,071,489
Tony and Suzanne Marriott, Associate Brokers
Serving the Greater Phoenix and Scottsdale Metropolitan Area - Scottsdale, AZ
Haven Express @ Keller Williams Arizona Realty

Candice A. Donofrio  nailed this one!

Jan 12, 2017 03:48 AM
Rainmaker
758,035
Peter Testa
Nationwide Homes - Danbury, CT
PETER TESTA

I would take precautions but not let fear hold me back.  

Jan 12, 2017 01:03 AM
Rainmaker
1,622,432
Inna Ivchenko
Barcode Properties - Encino, CA
Realtor® • GRI • HAFA • PSC Calabasas CA

It is very tragic...

My deepest condolences and prayers to the family....

 

Jan 11, 2017 11:50 PM
Rainer
216,904
Sharon Altier
Coldwell Banker Realty - Elmhurst, IL
Luxury Property Specialist, CSC, SFR

How can one truly pre-screen?  Are you going to run a criminal background check and credit check on a person?  Would love to have everyone run by FBI first, but it isn't plausible; is it?  

It can be a very ugly world out there. 

Jan 11, 2017 11:39 PM
Rainmaker
4,272,548
Paul S. Henderson, REALTOR®, CRS
Fathom Realty Washington LLC - Tacoma, WA
South Puget Sound Washington Agent/Broker!

I have heard that sad story before...

Jan 11, 2017 10:31 PM
Rainmaker
900,248
Olga Simoncelli
Veritas Prime, LLC dba Veritas Prime Real Estate - New Fairfield, CT
CONSULTANT, Real Estate Services & Risk Management

I think most of us have probably done the same at some point. This is another reminder to be careful.

Jan 11, 2017 08:43 PM
Rainmaker
3,986,258
William Feela
WHISPERING PINES REALTY - North Branch, MN
Realtor, Whispering Pines Realty 651-674-5999 No.

Big reason I carry a weapon and I am careful as not to turn my cack on anyone and I keep an eye on my exits.

Jan 11, 2017 08:28 PM
Ambassador
5,230,136
Debe Maxwell, CRS
Savvy + Company (704) 491-3310 - Charlotte, NC
The RIGHT CHARLOTTE REALTOR!

Such a sad story - I'm curious how this will pan out with his partner...guilty or not?

Jan 11, 2017 08:09 PM
Ambassador
6,393,609
Bob Crane
Woodland Management Service / Woodland Real Estate, KW Diversified - Stevens Point, WI
Forestland Experts! 715-204-9671

So sorry to hear this, we stopped and visited an Active Rain member ( Elise Harron ) in that area a few years ago, I wonder if she knew him.  Good to know that she carries plenty of protection.

Jan 11, 2017 08:04 PM
Rainmaker
5,005,659
Dorie Dillard Austin TX
Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899 - Austin, TX
NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones

This is not a story I enjoy reading..heartbreaking and so unnecessary.

Jan 11, 2017 07:00 PM
Rainmaker
1,617,916
Harry F. D'Elia III
WEDO Real Estate and Beyond, LLC - Phoenix, AZ
Investor , Mentor, GRI, Radio, CIPS, REOs, ABR

Thanks for the udpate and the safety advice

Jan 11, 2017 06:33 PM
Rainmaker
1,153,794
Kevin J. May
Florida Supreme Realty - Hobe Sound, FL
Serving the Treasure & Paradise Coasts of Florida

If you don't have a safety concern along with a plan an impromptu showing like this is similar to playing Russian roulette. Being anxious for a sale is one thing but being careless with your life is unacceptable. Too many others are depending on you!

Jan 11, 2017 06:27 PM
Rainmaker
1,466,207
Michael Setunsky
Woodbridge, VA
Your Commercial Real Estate Link to Northern VA

Jeff Pearl No one is safe in this business. We have to be vigilant.

Jan 11, 2017 05:17 PM
Rainmaker
4,800,082
Gabe Sanders
Real Estate of Florida specializing in Martin County Residential Homes, Condos and Land Sales - Stuart, FL
Stuart Florida Real Estate

I remember when this happened.  Terrible.

Jan 11, 2017 05:09 PM
Rainmaker
805,919
Steve Higgins
RE/MAX Kelowna - Kelowna, BC

That is really horrible. Hopefully the person or persons are caught.

Jan 11, 2017 05:02 PM
Rainmaker
3,416,038
Scott Godzyk
Godzyk Real Estate Services - Manchester, NH
One of the Manchester NH's area Leading Agents

SO sad and preventable. I never meet strangers at strange homes. Even when precautions are used, it can still be scary, which is why protection and bringing a 2nd person is a must

Jan 11, 2017 04:39 PM
Rainmaker
564,494
Maria Sapio
Keller Williams of Central PA - Carlisle, PA
Real Estate Agent- Carlisle, PA. Mariasapio.com

Tragic story ... 

Jan 11, 2017 04:18 PM
Rainmaker
7,836,431
Roy Kelley
Retired - Gaithersburg, MD

Personal safety should always be a priority consideration.

Jan 11, 2017 03:35 PM
Rainmaker
1,525,616
Sybil Campbell
Fernandina Beach, FL
Referral Agent Amelia Island Florida

I am so sad and confused about this.

Jan 11, 2017 03:18 PM
Ambassador
3,345,091
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist
KD Realty - 408.972.1822 - San Jose, CA
Probate Real Estate Services

I do believe that vetting is a good practice.  It does not appear the accused in this case was client or real estate related.  

Jan 12, 2017 10:44 AM
Rainmaker
2,781,273
Richie Alan Naggar
people first...then business Ran Right Realty - Riverside, CA
agent & author

You never know when the bell will toll for thee...

Jan 12, 2017 09:52 AM
Rainmaker
599,274
Nathan Gesner
American West Realty and Management - Cody, WY
Broker / Property Manager

By the way, there about ten REALTORS murdered every year so your odds are pretty good. The majority of those are in property management (my field). Be safe, but don't blow it out of proportion.

Jan 12, 2017 08:10 AM
Rainmaker
989,652
Jennifer Mackay
Counts Real Estate Group, Inc. - Panama City, FL
Your Bay County Florida Realtor 850.774.6582

It's why I am CCW certified

Jan 12, 2017 07:42 AM
Rainmaker
1,726,096
Sandy Padula & Norm Padula, JD, GRI
HomeSmart Realty West & Florida Realty Investments - , CA
Presence, Persistence & Perseverance

Sad event. Another great argument for open carry

Jan 12, 2017 07:13 AM
Rainmaker
1,027,602
Susan Haughton
Long and Foster REALTORS (703) 470-4545 - Alexandria, VA
Susan & Mindy Team...Honesty. Integrity. Results.

Actually, what Candice A. Donofrio said, although I agree personal safety should absolutely come first.

Last year, I had a sign call on a vacant listing;  the person calling was affable, we had a great conversation but I could still feel something was "off" and when he balked at meeting me at the office before seeing the property (when the property was 10 minutes from the office), I said, okay, well, good luck with your search. 

We must have safety standards in place for ourselves and stick to them.  We are the only ones who can truly protect ourselves.

Jan 12, 2017 06:56 AM
Rainmaker
864,658
Les & Sarah Oswald
Realty One Group - Eastvale, CA
Broker, Realtor and Investor

Very sad. This is just a reminder and wake up call to be alert and cautious all the time.  Unfamiliar clients should be prescreened.

Jan 12, 2017 03:46 AM
Rainmaker
1,239,901
Sam Shueh
(408) 425-1601 - San Jose, CA
mba, cdpe, reopro, pe

mystery  solved?

Jan 11, 2017 07:41 PM
Rainmaker
3,626,530
James Dray
Fathom Realty - Bentonville, AR

So sad, we really need some rules

Jan 11, 2017 05:15 PM
Rainmaker
5,868,565
Joan Cox
House to Home, Inc. - Denver Real Estate - 720-231-6373 - Denver, CO
Denver Real Estate - Selling One Home at a Time

This was very sad, and made an announcement today at our Association for all to hear.   We have to be so careful!   

Jan 13, 2017 03:22 PM
Rainmaker
2,224,473
Debbie Laity
Cedaredge Land Company - Cedaredge, CO
Your Real Estate Resource for Delta County, CO

I hadn't heard this story yet. What a shame. 

Jan 12, 2017 03:13 PM
Rainmaker
666,639
AJ Heidmann ~ CRS
McEnearney Associates, Inc. - Alexandria, VA
YOUR Alexandria & Arlington, VA Real Estate Expert

Common sense just doesn't seem so common anymore... and I am not talking about the tragic death of Sid.  For any Realtor to meet an unknown buyer/tenant outside of a well lit public area that has a lot of people in it is a recipe for potential disaster.  The office is the preferred place to meet, but it isn't always feasible, but a Starbucks or some other public place would be the place to meet.  Before you go out just ask yourself, would you let your wife/husband/kids go do the same thing?

Jan 12, 2017 03:10 PM