Realtors’ lockboxes in Hamilton have been removed by thieves carrying the necessary equipment to cut the lockbox and remove the key inside. Lockboxes have regularly been used by realtors to allow access by other realtors doing showings of homes and condominium properties for sale. Typically, a key code provides access to the lockbox.
RE/MAX Escarpment Golfi Realty Inc., Brokerage alerted us to this concern, reported by an agent: “…there have been numerous calls to the police regarding this invasion of privacy…there is speculation that these incidents are also starting to occur in the city of Burlington.”
A local realtor notified some fellow agents on June 15 about the individuals stealing lockboxes and their keys from property listings. The Golfi team is “eager to get the word out to the public and all realtors in the area to ensure the safety of their clients, their properties, and themselves.” The property management company and the Hamilton police were notified immediately and the locks were changed rapidly. Apparently, “this awful act is happening all over the city of Hamilton right now. All agents need to be aware and cautious in order to keep their clients and themselves safe.” It is important for all citizens to keep an eye out for any suspicious behaviour, including buyers and sellers: “stay vigilant, spread the word, and continue to make buying/selling houses an exciting and safe experience for everyone.”
On June 21, Constable Ryan Anderson of the Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) advised local-news.ca that they are not aware of any break-ins in Burlington in the past month using this method of access. Please contact the HRPS on their non-emergency line (905-825-4777) to report any victim of this type of incident in Burlington or Halton.
As readers will know from previous monthly articles about HRPS activity in Burlington, while we can generally agree that we live in a safe community, there are many examples of illegal activity in our community.
