When did "Free" become a bad thing?

Her credit may be bad because she signed up for something free that wasn't.

Heath has a very good point.  It happened to me!

Darrell:  That's a shame but I think we have to understand that too many consumers have been misled by those who only care about making the deal.  For that, those in your industry and mine have to pay the price of distrust on the part of the consumer.  Too bad she didn't call because sounds like she lost out on some good advice.  She could have easily terminated the phone call if it wasn't on the up and up. 

I think it comes down to people thinking certain things will be a waste of time...or someone will try to sell them something.

Some people can't say no, regardless, and they feel that "fee" is a word used to trick them into calling.  Then they get stuck paying for something they can't say no to.  There are so many scams out there that those who offer a legitimate service suffer for it.

I help save homes from foreclosure, but people can't help but wonder what the scam is.  What a shame.

Gregory- There are those out their claiming to help but they are really scamming.

It is sad that we as a society have lost the abitlity to trust in people's goodness and kindness. Hopefully through acts of random kindness we can change everyone's opinion.

I think it's because of all the scams out there.  People here the word FREE and say "That's going to cost me a lot".  It's just human nature due to the scams.

Free has become a bad word.  It's associated with "catch".  Try emailing the loan officer and asking her to forward the information to the client.  That way it comes from a source the client trusts and you still come out the hero.  See if that helps.  She may even call you and apologize for her prejudice.  See how it goes!

A free consultation typically means a sales cycle.

Hey Darrel,

    A lot of people find themselves thinking "If it sounds to good to be true it's probably a scam" I have another business besides real estate and I save people money every day and even though it cost them nothing in return they think it's a scam. Some people just CAN'T BEE HELPED at no price!!!

Tom S.

darrell, I share your dismay.  I spend a lot of time explaining that "free" really means free. Sadly , the manipulators, and victimizers have made us all reluctant to use the word.

Some people have just been scammed so many times that it gives a bad rap to the people who really want to help them...   Kinda like all the people holding "will work for food"  signs.  Some are in real need, but so many are just con-artists looking for a free hand out.   I even offered to buy one a meal, and all he wanted was money.  "He said, what do I look like a freeloader?"  go figure.