REO (Real Estate Owned) inspections can be dangerous simply for the fact that the home has been vacant for a given amount of time. They are typically not checked on regularly and this gives time for squatters and/or other critters to move into the home. Appraisers have seen everything from bugs, raccoons, robbers among other things happening in vacant homes and the appraisers safety is first priority. Here are some tips to make sure you are safe when you go to inspect. 

• Take someone with you if at all possible. Having a second party come with you directly or waiting for someone who is working with the home to meet you is always the best idea. If this is not possible for some reason you can always make sure that you are giving your schedule to an employee, friend or family member. This should include addresses and times as well as a way for you to confirm that the inspection is completed and you are safe. 

• Safety products like mace, pepper spray, whistles or devices that can beep loudly in case of trouble. You can also have a tracking device on your phone as well. It also wouldn’t be terrible to have bug spray for the smaller critters that may be lurking in the home. 

• Know your surroundings and what type of animals could potentially be in the home. It’s never a bad idea to be fully prepared, especially if you live in an area with poisonous animals or larger animals that could be taking shelter in the home. 

• Leave immediately if you suspect anything is wrong. Call the authorities and once you are able you can update the AMC to the issues at hand and look at making a different plan to check out the home if everything is cleared. 

Your safety must come first and is worth much more than an appraisal fee. Most AMCs will be more than willing to work with you if you have done everything you can to make the appraisal happen within your boundaries or you went out and felt unsafe.