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What would you do?

By
Real Estate Agent with RE/MAX Midlands Realty

I had a listing appointment this morning that has really stuck with me all day.  First all I can say is that I really feel for the guy and would like to help him but I am not sure I can.

The neighborhood was in bad shape but the house was 10 times worse.  I approach the door and there is a sign that says "Warning:  Flea Infestation!"  I stood there debating where or not I should even continue and go in the house and decided I should.  I told myself that I agreed to meet with this guy about selling his home and thats what I should do.

I knock and after a few minutes he opens the door and it is worst than I expect.  My potential client looks awful and is really struggling.  He is emaciated and his eyes do not seem to like the light.  He invites me in and we walk to the kitchen.  The home is filthy, dirty and packed with everything imaginable.  His large dog is friendly, smells and is covered with fleas.

Basically his wife died a year ago from breast cancer and he is broke and needs to sell the home.  He has no money and can barely afford to pay his bills.  I am sure he can't afford care for himself not to mention the dog.  He speech was slow and he struggled with his thoughts.  I could smell booze and beer and I noticed track marks on his arm.  Unfortunately he is not named on the deed.  The probate court has ordered him to share all proceeds 50 percent with her 4 children.  He says the children did not care for her and basically disowned her.  (I talked to a daughter later and she confirmed the story).  They all want to sell the home but the children just want their share from what I can tell.

The big issue is the man's well being.  I was only there 45 minutes and left covered in fleas.  I bolted home where I undressed in the garage, carried my clothes to the washing maching and quickly showered.  I felt guilty about the visit because all I could think about was leaving!  The smell was intense and the whole situation bothered me.

I have left my father-in-law a message about the man and what I can do.  My father-in-law is a retired social worker who was the county director of DSS in my area.  I am not sure there is anything they can do or if I should do anything.  My concern is the man's well being.  I am not even thinking of the home yet.

So my question is what would you do?  I am going to talk to my father-in-law and make my decision.  Should I call DSS or tell the gentlemen I am unable to help or what?

Thanks for your hep.

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Shannon Livingston
John R. Wood - Naples, FL

Sounds like you are already doing the right thing.  Social services exist for a reason, and this man needs some help.  As far as the house goes, he would have to be out of it to get it ready for the market anyway - maybe rehab for him while the house is treated for the fleas and cleaned up?  (If those kids want their share they might need to help make it marketable)  Sounds like the biggest problem you will have is getting him to accept the help and part with the dog for a while.  Whatever happens, it's uplifting to know that you care - hope your kindness is returned.

May 09, 2008 04:55 AM
Adam Brett
The Adam and Eric Group - Fullerton, CA
The Adam and Eric Group, Fullerton's Finest

I would call social services.  You need to do the right thing - for your morality - and the pocketbook will follow.

May 09, 2008 05:00 AM
Gary McAdams
GMAC Schwartz Property Sales - Key West, FL

I know this is going to sound harsh but since you asked for opinions I'll give mine.  Booze and track marks.  How bad to you feel for a person who has no money to flea bomb his house but has money to buy heroine and booze?  How sorry do you feel that you got fleas so he can shoot up?  I feel sorry for the poor dog.  I'd call the SPCA to come take the dog, give him the phone number to a Detox and walk away.

May 09, 2008 05:03 AM
Colleen Cooley
The Corcoran Group - Jupiter, FL
CRS - Jupiter Florida

Please have animal services help the poor dog. Most important, flea bomb your car. Make sure to get the one that kills the eggs.

May 09, 2008 05:13 AM
Chip Jefferson
Advanced Building LLC - Lexington, SC

Calling SS is a start. I hope the comps allow for rehab after his payoff. Sounds like it may be a foreclosure waiting to happen. Depening on the area of lexington or columbia I may have a investor for it.

May 09, 2008 05:50 AM
Mike Coppney
RE/MAX Midlands Realty - Lexington, SC

Thank you for your imput everyone.  I talked to my father-in-law and they (DSS) are going to step in and determine if he is a risk to himself or others.  They will also decide if someone needs to be contacted regarding the dog.  I was told that the things I saw warrant a possible investigation.

May 09, 2008 06:28 AM