This series is being written as a result of not only my experiences, but those of other Real Estate agents, Sellers and Buyers who have recently been party to a real estate transaction involving a new breed of company that promised one thing, and yet delivered something much different.

Your comments and personal experiences are welcomed, as education is the intended outcome.

Part I:

In every type of real estate market, there will always be individuals and companies that will capitalize on the current state of affairs. Some might say that they are just entrepreneurs who are making a living providing a service that is in high demand, while others claim that those who jump into a business only when the "trend" indicates that they will make money, are opportunists who dilute the integrity of the industry.

For example...think back a few years to when the real estate market was "booming" and I am confident that at least one person you know became a real estate agent, a mortgage broker, a home inspector, an appraiser or a title agent in hopes of making easy money...

While some of them may still be in business today, many of them are not....some because they had no business plan, some because they didn't actually care about building a referral base, and others because they were involved in deceptive practices that landed them in legal trouble.

Fast forward to today's real estate market, saturated with short-sales and foreclosures, and you'll notice a similar trend....new companies and "experts" who promise to save Sellers from their impending demise through their loss mitigation services, loan modification products or foreclosure avoidance programs.

While I believe that there ARE individuals and companies who are honest, ethical and knowledgeable professionals who can and do help distressed homeowners, there are also many others who are "career hoppers" with no experience, no knowledge and no substantive track record showing their success in the field they claim to be an "expert" in.

Unfortunately, these are some of the same individuals/companies who prey upon the fears of the Seller, make false promises to the Real Estate agents they "partner" with, and at times, suggests actions that could be deemed deceptive and fraudulent if agreed upon...all while suggesting that it's just "the way things are done," with these types of transactions.

Sellers, Buyers and Real Estate agents alike need to do their homework before contracting with these types of companies because rather than being your friend, they may actually be your foe.

Parts II & III of this series will address some of the tactics that Sellers, Buyers and their Real Estate agents should be wary of...and when it's time to find help somewhere else.

LaShawn Norden, PA, REALTOR, Real Estate Advocate for Buyers & Sellers in Seminole County, Florida, RE/MAX Central Realty, (321) 377-0157, LaShawn@LaShawnNorden.com

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