How well do you know your short sale real estate agent?
I read an article in the "Internet newspaper" this morning about a local real estate, husband/wife team that has had their license revoked because they have been accused of numerous fraudulent activities.
This well known team advertised themselves as the #1 short sale real estate agent in the WORLD! He has been interviewed on various TV news programs nationally and on these interviews proclaimed himself as the best in the business. The short sale expert! 
It has always been amazing to me how someone can be a "short sale expert" when the short sale process is an ever changing beast in this industry.
As a consumer you might see these advertisements and call this team if you were in a distressed position. After all- he puts in writing that he will purchase your home if it doesn't sell within 90 days. (Too bad for the many consumers when that promise was not kept.)
Hey, he must be pretty good (you think to yourself) when you see the number of short sale listings he has acquired - in excess of 300+ at one time.
The accusations are astonishing as you read through the list of consumer complaints and stories. Blank forms signed by homeowners, price adjustments forged and the list just goes on and on.
Not surprising to me, since I am here in the area and have unfortunately had my own subdued run-in's with the team.
There are many complaints from local brokers against the real estate team as well.
The story creates a sadness for me. In these difficult times we see our friends, neighbors and community going through rough times. We expect to trust those that promise to help us. All these homeowners who are in the short sale process have now lost their agent and very possibly the sale on their home. Unfortunately, foreclosure could be around the corner. This event is a reminder to the consumer.
Please get professional legal and tax advice
Ask questions
Ask for references
Do not sign anything without reading it first!
Do not let your emotions get involved.
Our world is not a perfect place and there are those that will always be there to prey.
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