How to list a property that's already listed.

Do you ever take post dated listings? What I mean is, a potential Seller calls you up and wants to get together and discuss placing their property on the market, the catch is, they are currently listed with another company. What do you do? Well, I'll tell you what I do, I go over and take the listing. Did you know this was perfectly ethical?

What you can't do is try to convince them to cancel their existing agreement or bad mouth their current Realtor. Also, you must post date the listing agreement. But other than those three things, this is an acceptable way to do business. I actually run across this quite often in my business and never hesitate to take the listing.

My feeling on this is that, these Sellers just want to sell their house, if their current situation is not working out for them, then, I am more than happy to give them another option. How do you feel about this? Do you do it?

Would it make you angry if I did this on one of your listings?

Well, I've never had it happen on one of my listings but don't think it would bother me at all. I too want my Sellers to sell their house and if for some reason I can't get the job done, I would want them to seek another REALTORS(R) services. Heck I may even make a recommendation to them.

Here's the section in our Code of Ethics that covers this situation.

Standard of Practice 16-6

• When REALTORS^® are contacted by the client of another REALTOR^® regarding the creation of an exclusive relationship to provide the same type of service, and REALTORS^® have not directly or indirectly initiated such discussions, they may discuss the terms upon which they might enter into a future agreement or, alternatively, may enter into an agreement which becomes effective upon expiration of any existing exclusive agreement. (Amended 1/98)

So, the next time this situation presents itself, go take the listing. Don't feel bad about it, just do it. It's all a part of good business practices and it helps the consumer out. And that really is what it's all about. What say you?