Expert: Karyn Foley - 6/16/2009

Question
Hi Karyn,

I am VERY frustrated with my realtor!  

I have a realtor I'm working with who is a friend of my mom's.  We've been working together since 11/2008.  We finally found and got a property 3/2009.  However we haven't closed on it.  

The realtor isn't professional at all.  Because we are purchasing a foreclosed home with an FHA we have some work to do on the property before our loan is approved.  She was supposed to open the house and let our contractor in to estimate the fixes.  She never showed up - when "I" (she didn't even call me) called her she said she couldn't make it.  So she gives us the combination and for us to show the contractor what needs to be fixed.  Also, we need to open an escrow account there was only the signature form the seller's agent, I asked how do we get the escrow agent to sign the document, she says, "The escrow agent will be the city so they'll sign it when you bring in the forms and open up the escrow."  Whatever!!!  That was so wrong!  So I took the initiative to contact the escrow agent myself to obtain their signature.  Not only that but she's always late for showings and without ever giving us a call to tell us.  Those are only few examples of what she's put us through.  

My question is, is it too late to switch realty agents.  They would have to share the commission since she's worked on half the purchase?  What else can I do to boot her?

Any help is appreciated!  Thank you for your help.

Answer
DEar Betty:  You are in a very frustrating position.  I do not care that your agent is a friend of your Mother, still sit down and talk at a meeting with her, her manager (or office owner) and yourself.  Explain all of the above, and how you are not being represented.  Let them know you plan on filing a formal letter of complaint with the local board of real estate, and also contacting the state department of real estate to see what laws/ethics/procedures she has violated.  She is NOT supposed to give you a combination to another person's house; it is her responsibility to open it for you.  Why would you pay her for work she does not do and that you are doing?  Demand that another agent step in and share commissions.  It is never too late to have correct advocacy.  Be certain to tell your Mother that she should not recommend her again to anyone.  Good luck to you, and let me know if there is anything else I can help you with.  Be sure to find out who and where the local board of real estate is and contact their grievance committee.  That agent doesn't deserve your business.  Karyn Foley