Vancouver real estate board warns of 'suspicious person' targeting female realtors

Reports of a “suspicious man” contacting female realtors has prompted the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV) to issue a warning to its members.

A notice sent to members says that the man has been contacting female realtors “in an effort to get them alone at showings and open houses.”

“The man has called claiming he’s interested in listings in Burnaby, Coquitlam, or New Westminster close to SkyTrain stations. He’ll attempt to set up showings or tours and will insist that the Realtor come alone.”

If the realtor refuses to attend the open house by herself, the man gets angry.

REBGV says the suspect is:

• Male
• Approximately 30-years-old
• Soft-spoken
• Goes by “Sean Z ” or “Lee Chang”

The board is asking realtors to take precaution during showings and open houses.

Ashley Smith, REBGV President, says that the individual acts like a “savvy buyer” and has been seen “lingering” during the end of an open house and making the realtor at the showing feel uncomfortable.

“We have been hearing reports of this person over the last couple of weeks,” she said.

She confirmed that a number of police departments, including those in Vancouver, Delta, New Westminster, and Coquitlam, have been notified.

“It’s a good reminder to always be cautious,” said Smith. “It’s unfortunate, but it needs to happen.”

The REBGV is asking realtors to trust their instincts whenever meeting potential clients and to always bring a fellow realtor to showings or open houses.

“Do whatever it takes to remove yourself from an uncomfortable situation,” states the board.