I have 2 rental transactions for which I have not been paid.
The First
The tenant moved in January 4, 2008 (as in 1 year ago). This was an HOC client and we paid her security deposit and her portion of the first month's rent directly to the real estate company for the landlord via money order. The remainder of the first month's rent is sent from the County to the landlord directly. I have tried repeatedly to call the listing agent to find out about the commission. She has never returned my calls. I have spoken to her manager who told me he would look into it and I still have heard nothing. I had my manager looking into it and they told him they never received payments from their client.
My client is ready to move again and her landlord is complaining that she never paid a security deposit because he never got one from his company. Luckily, I have copies of all the money orders.
My porton of the commission would be about $350. Its not even really about the money anymore but about the principle. At this point I am mad for a couple reasons, 1. Its my money. If I am going to blow $350 I would rather it be on a lobster dinner and fun evening out with my husband and 2. Now the landlord is suggesting that my client did not pay which will hamper her chances of getting another place if he gives her a bad reference.
Here's my question, what would you do?
My husband, the lawyer, says sue them. He suggested I could end up on Judge Joe Brown or Judge Judy.
On a serious note, should I report them to the real estate commission? It seems to be very unethical business practices to keep not just my commission but the client's security deposit.
HELP!!!!!
Comments(15)