L'ILE DE SUR, Quebec, Nov. 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — On the occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, the Professional Association of Real Estate Brokers of Quebec (QPAREB) wishes to remind the public of the importance of safety in situations where women may find themselves alone with strangers – whether in a professional or personal setting.
Every day, tens of thousands of women work in jobs that require them to be alone with strangers, sometimes in isolated or empty spaces. This is especially true for many female real estate brokers in Quebec. They are often forced to visit sites on their own, and over time they develop heightened vigilance and prevention reflexes.
These best practices, which QPAREB aims to disseminate among its members, can also inspire all women – and anyone who may have to meet unknown people – to adopt simple and effective behaviors to reduce risk.
“Safety is a huge concern for many female brokers. That's why QPAREB is sharing five simple, effective tips to help you adopt risk-reducing behaviors,” says Nathalie Begin, director of QPAREB's brokerage practice.
Five safety tips to keep in mind
- Know who you're dealing with
Before you meet someone, gather information, ask for their contact information, or confirm a meeting location. - Tell someone your location
Tell a trusted person where you are going, who you are with, and when you plan to return. - Keep your phone handy
Make sure it is charged and accessible. Save emergency contacts and, if necessary, set a distress code for someone you trust. - Assess the situation before entering
Check possible exits, avoid isolated or poorly lit areas, and always ensure a clear exit. - Protect your personal information
Don't reveal details about your home, children, or schedule.
It's important to note that these best practices apply to both women and men who work alone.
Podcast for further development
In a special episode of the podcast, QPAREB gives the floor to a broker who agreed to share her experience of the attack and the lessons she learned from it. She emphasizes the importance of reporting any inappropriate behavior.
“If you don't say anything and no one finds out, the client may do the same thing on another visit. As a broker, you don't have to put up with that. It's better to lose the sale and potentially save lives.”
This story, both sensitive and constructive, highlights the need for increased vigilance in risky situations.
To listen to the podcast, Click here.
About the Professional Association of Real Estate Brokers of Quebec
The Professional Association of Real Estate Brokers of Quebec (QPAREB) is a non-profit association of more than 15,000 real estate brokers and agents. It is responsible for promoting and protecting their interests, taking into account the issues facing the profession and the various professional and regional realities of its members. QPAREB also plays an important role in many property files, including the implementation of measures to promote home ownership. The association reports statistics on the Quebec residential real estate market, provides training, tools and services related to real estate, and promotes the collection, dissemination and exchange of information. QPAREB has its head office in Quebec, with administrative offices in Montreal and a regional office in Saguenay. It has two subsidiaries: Société Centris Inc. and the College of Real Estate of Quebec. Follow his activities on qpareb.ca or through his pages on social networks: Facebook, LinkedIn And Instagram.
For more information:
Ariane Boulet
Morin Public Relations
[email protected]
