Even in a large city like Washington DC, with so many Real Estate Agents; we in the industry all quickly learn who the good guys are and the bad guys.
Just this week I received a call from someone who was going to list with us; but had not done so officially - he had not signed on the dotted line because he had been traveling on business.
Another agent who works heavily in his condo complex calls his and says; "I have an out of town buyer who would like to see your unit this weekend. Do you have it listed yet?"
The future client said he had chosen another agent to represent him.
The other agent says; "Well can you show me a copy of the contract? So I can show the unit."
OK - so when I heard I this I knew exactly what was going on. The future client calls in a panic. "I haven't signed anything yet. Can I send it signed to you right now?"
(Well there is 1 way to get a listing agreement signed quickly; have some agent the guy hates call him).
Long story short; I get the signed listing agreement and then call the other agent.
"Mr. "X" says you have an out of town client who wants to see the unit this weekend? I have the listing and the sales price is "x" and the buyers agent commission is "y%". It will be in the MLS this weekend; but if you want to show it; that will be fine."
The other agent; "Well, er, thanks. I will see if I have a client who wants to see it this weekend and let you know."
"Don't you have a client coming from out of town?", I ask.
"Yes, but just not sure what he wants to see and his timing"; the unscrupulous agent says.
...Sure; I know his game. This isn't the first time I have heard him doing such things. In fact we have another client who fired this agent for doing other
things which were unethical. But thats a different story.
Bottom line; use an agent you feel good about. Not just someone who calls and says; "I have (or may have) a buyer for your home". Heck; every Real Estate agent has a buyer for your house (it just may take them 90 days to get them!).
Contact James Downing of the Downing Real Estate Group, if you are selling, buying or have questions!
Office: 202-362-5800 Cell: 703.244.3971
Licensed in Washington DC, Virginia & Maryland.
Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage - Chevy Chase
5028 Wisconsin Ave NW Suite 100 * Washington DC 20016
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How down and dirty can you get? Your client had good radar going there. Unfortunately not all of the agents subscribe to the Code of Ethics.