I have a friend whose wife goes to various properties all over the Chicago land area...and is now considering getting a permit to carry a gun. This story points out why it would be a good idea...this isn't the only time a realtor has been targeted because they go to empty, strange houses alone...
After A Kidnapping and Murder In Arkansas Realtors Nationwide Turn To Concealed Carry - Bearing Arms
As a former Realtor Associate, I can identify, as those of us who host
open house events for interested persons looking at homes for sale, have been targets for a long time, and those who are looking to murder, know where to find us. I am for
open carry laws, in conditions such as hosting open houses. This would also make those looking at homes feel more secure. I know of women who were murdered while hosting.
Hosting an open house, for those who don't know, involves being in a home a realtor has listed for sale and opening it to the public for many hours in a given day, usually on the weekends, and often serving coffee and treats. One is alone for hours. The only way I would do one, was to have another agent or two, be with me. But this wasn't always possible as agents have lives and are busy. One feels very vulnerable alone in a house with For Sale signs in front saying OPEN HOUSE. Banners waving.
Sorry folks....that is just the new state of the country. Murder and mayhem. I will be no sitting duck, especially going to businesses that advertise, No Guns Allowed.
From you link:
"Women are especially prominent in real estate, where agents often work alone and meet clients at unoccupied dwellings both day and night."