NWMLS Alert: Multiple Thefts Reported

Attention Brokers in King, Snohomish, Pierce, & Thurston Counties

NWMLS has received an increasing number of reports regarding residential property break-ins and thefts. During the past two weeks, five major property thefts involving thousands of dollars’ worth of jewelry, furniture, and other valuable items have occurred in the Seattle/Tacoma Metro areas and several smaller thefts have also been reported.

 Many of these reports appear to involve the same two men, posing as real estate brokers. NWMLS members have reported that the men are very convincing and appear to be familiar with real estate jargon and policies. Please use extra caution, especially with unoccupied properties, to ensure that all doors and windows are locked before you leave. It is suggested that you carefully review your public-facing marketing remarks and remove any specific information about the home being unoccupied or notes about the sellers being out of town. Police reports have been filed for these thefts and the local authorities are continuing to follow leads to capture the suspects.

Please read through these tips for minimizing the risk of theft:

• Ask sellers to remove expensive valuables, especially if the home is unoccupied
• Make sure to attach your keybox to a secure, well-lit location
• Get to know the neighbors and ask them to contact the police if they see suspicious behavior or unexpected moving trucks
• Routinely check on your listed properties
• Register your keyboxes with Supra/NWMLS

As a reminder, always immediately report any strange occurrences to the local police. 

Thank you,
Northwest Multiple Listing Service

425-820-9200 or 800-541-0455