Why did my Realtor insert “Property Under Surveillance” in my property listing?

Written by Posted On Monday, 03 June 2019 10:02

An increasing number of real estate listings – both in print and online – include the phrase: “Property under surveillance.” Many home sellers immediately pick up the phone and reach out to their realtor when they see the unexpected addition to their home’s description.

If you have mixed feelings about advertising that your property has a surveillance system, this article is for you.

Home security is a real concern for owners of property that is publicly listed.

When listing a property for sale, it is prudent to install a home security system. Homes listed for sale can make their way onto a burglar’s radar. They’re less likely to be occupied and neighbors will be less concerned if someone they don’t know is entering your home.

Thankfully, homeowners can avoid expensive installation costs and long-term contracts. It’s relatively easy to install a wireless security system to help secure your property. And when your home is sold, the system can be easily transferred to your new residence.

Many Realtors Automatically Include a Surveillance Disclaimer

Should sellers be concerned if their realtor wants to disclose that the property for sale is under surveillance? What if the realtor automatically added this line without confirming with the seller?

It is common for real estate agents in rural communities – listing properties in isolated areas – to automatically add that the property is under surveillance. This is meant to deter would-be thieves from heading to the property on the assumption that it’s left unoccupied.

Then there are the potential ramifications for a realtor that fails to disclose the fact that their seller is using a surveillance system.

Sellers Have Been Known to Spy on Buyers While Touring their Home for Sale

In the real estate community, one of the hot topics is the use of video cameras to spy on buyers as they tour a property. Many realtors have admitted that their clients use nanny cams and other visual / audio recording devices to see what a potential buyer discusses during the walk-through.

This can provide the seller with an edge during the negotiation process. If they know that the buyer really loves the property, it’s easier to call their bluff when they counter-offer.

Potential Legal Ramifications of a Seller Spying on a Buyer

Disclaimer: I am not an attorney. I am simply offering my limited understanding here. If you have legal questions, consult your attorney.

The general rule of thumb is that you can’t record someone without their consent if they have a reasonable expectation of privacy. Does a potential buyer visiting your home have a reasonable expectation of privacy? Probably not.

But there are states where a Real Estate Agent can be held liable if they fail to disclose the presence of a surveillance system. Again, it’s best to seek qualified legal advice if you have questions about legal liability.

Does “Property Under Surveillance” hurt my listing?

Some sellers feel that advertising a surveillance system gives potential buyers the wrong impression. Are buyers asking themselves: “Why does that property need a surveillance system? Have there been break-ins? Is this home located in a safe community?”

This is a valid concern. But most real estate professionals will tell you that this is a very common phrase in the real estate listings that buyers are combing through to find their dream home.

Realtors want to ensure they’re on the right side of any professional regulations or ethical concerns when they publish a listing. And many for “for sale by owner” (FSBO) listings include a blurb about a home security system in order to ward off bad guys.

The bottom-line: Don’t sweat it. Selling your home is a stressful experience. Let go of the little stuff and focus on the more important aspects of getting your home ready to sell .

 
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James Stevenson

Hi, My name is James and I've been involved in the property and real estate industry for 10 years now. I hope people will like to read about my thoughts and experiences in the industry and please contact me if you want to discuss my articles further!

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