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Open house robbery changes real estate in Northeast Ohio

Posted at 5:12 PM, Feb 20, 2017
and last updated 2017-02-20 17:47:42-05

Real estate agents in Northeast Ohio are on high alert right now, after a man used open home showings as a way to case houses for stuff to steal.

Daniel Roberts is accused of checking out open houses then heading back to burglarize them.

Carl Demusz represents thousands of real estate agents as CEO of NORMLS, Northeast Ohio Regional Multiple Listing Services and he told News 5 they sent out a warning.

"This will be a big change to how agents review things," he said. 

Adding, "We're thrilled to share that information and help protect people."

Demusz called it a new twist to an old story because Roberts is accused of preparing the homes by unlocking doors or windows while checking them out as a potential buyer. 

"It's not one we are used to seeing, preparing the house to come back," he said. 

Agents are now double checking - locking all doors and windows after showing a home 

"A lot of response from agents and brokers, who are saying- here's another thing to add to our list to be careful."

Cleveland Police are still investigating Roberts' case. Daniel Roberts is currently facing second-degree felony charges.