Charlie, some just don't understand the value a good REALTOR brings to the client. When we come in contact with them then it is our opportunity to educate them.

CR,

My favorite line to these callers " You got yourself into this mess now hire an attorney,i`m sorry I can`t tell you what to do"...

Charlie:  Preach it, brother!  How many people just like your caller are penny wise and pound foolish?  (Does the younger generation have any idea what that quote means?)

Mike in Tucson

Charlie--It all seems like such a good thing to work without a Realtor until problems arise. I'm with Scott. All you can do is suggest an attorney or arbitration.

Great post Charlie and I agree 100%. It amazes me some peoples mentality and NOT using a Realtor to buy their home.

Sean Allen

I agree with you Charlie, there are plenty of us REALTORS out here to help and assist at no cost to the buyer.  Call me!!! 

Thanks for the post.

Hi Charlie,

Great Post!!! Thank you for sharing this with us.

an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.  At this point an attorney is the only answer, in the future, and as a general rule, always have your own professional representation.

Sometimes I receive calls like that. I realize it's human nature to gloat and push the caller off by saying only a lawyer can help them now; however, I'd like to think that many of us are more sensitive than that. Don't get me wrong, I do advise that the buyer call a lawyer because I cannot give legal advice; but on the other hand, I listen to them. Sometimes that's all they want is to talk about their financial troubles with a person who will listen. I offer suggestions that will help them down the road, and I help them explore a few options. I offer to send them sample contracts and other data that may help. It's just good business practice in my book.

Those who respond, "Why you stupid fool," are unlikely to get the listing when this home goes on the market, and their name won't pop up on that buyer's lips when asked about a competent agent.

I think this person asked a question on AR's Q&A in Georgia...Great post, thanks for sharing a good story....

Charlie, I'm with you all the way on this point. It's a sinking feeling on the other end of the phone when the consumer realizes they're boxed in. We didn't construct the box. Great post.

Like Elizabeth, I too, would listen to them first.  At this point they realize they should have gone with a Real Estate Agent and have made a big mistake.  The least you can do is listen to them and inform them to call an attorney.  Because you were there for them in their time of need, they will remember you when it comes time for them to sell, and maybe buy, again.  You also need to look to the future.