The composite sketch of a man accused of the assault.

The British Columbia Real Estate Association (BCREA) is offering a reward of $10,000 to anyone who “comes forward with information that leads directly to the apprehension and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the recent attack on a Lower Mainland Realtor,” the association says.

“Thankfully, these incidents are rare, but they do happen,” says BCREA CEO Robert Laing. “Realtor safety is an important area of concern for all of us in the real estate profession.”

On July 17, Coquitlam RCMP released a composite sketch of the man accused of the assault that took place at a Port Coquitlam open house in early May. Police say a man went to an open house on Rowland Street and allegedly sexually assaulted a female Realtor. She did not suffer any physical injury and was able to convince the male to leave, says the RCMP.

The man is described as an Asian male in his mid 30s, with dark hair and eyes and with some bumps on his face. At the time of the incident, he was wearing a t-shirt, jeans and running shoes.

BCREA says the reward is available until July 18, 2014, for information that leads directly to the apprehension and conviction of the perpetrator.

The association is also reminding Realtors to take precautions and help ensure their safety in their day-to-day real estate practice. When meeting clients, especially for the first time, it suggests meeting in your office or a public space, having more than one person at meetings and open houses and always having a cell phone at your side.

“Also ensure that a colleague, friend or family member knows where you are at all times and when you will be back, don’t publicize personal information and always trust your instincts,” says BCREA.