I am a renter in a house that is for sale. The realtor called me and stated that a client who previously looked at the house would like to see the house again but has requested that I not be present while they look at the house. First she asked me to stand on the front porch. I said it was not acceptable because I live near Cleveland and it is winter here. I countered by saying that I could go upstairs while they look at the first floor and that if they wish to look upstairs again I would come downstairs while they look at the 2nd floor. She said that they would not agree to it. Then asked if I could leave and go somewhere or sit in my car!
This sounds outrageous to me. What do you think? Please if you are a realtor say so in your reply.
2007-01-02 10:18:21 · 9 answers · asked by Tegarst 7 in Business & Finance ➔ Renting & Real Estate
Thanks to everyone that replied.
2007-01-02 12:58:42 · update #1
It is sad whenever a question like yours comes up, I taught agents for years and I can guarantee you it wasnt one of my students that you are referring to. Real estate agents can have pushy clients sometimes but often it is a super ego agent that makes demands of others which are just plain disrespectful. In your case, disrespectful, unnecessary, rude, and quite possibly in violation of your renter rights to privacy. I can ask a renter if they would be ok with me previewing or showing the home. It is the renters right to say no which I must respect. When asking for permission is where diplomacy and tact can go a long way.
I know as a renter you will eventually be a buyer, this is my chance to establish a level of professionalism with you, this is where most agents cost themselves referrals as they are not seeing the greater picture. I have never had a big issue come from a renter or owner remain in the home while showing it in over 20 years. My buyers and sellers are better prepared than most and I often have had them at escrow signing show up riding together. Real estate isnt about causing enemys just because one wants to buy what another desires to sell. It is about transferring ownership and building long term relationships. Forgetting common courtesy and being a raging and overly demanding prima donna might be what some do but they arent reflective of the majority of good agents. Sorry I got a ways out there but in closing I would suggest going over your lease agreement and pointing out the 24 hours notice if it exists. If it doesnt or there is a marketing clause allowing for intrusion then ask for a rent reduction in exchange. Let your landlord know that the listing agent is rude to you and could cause a landlord tenant rights violation if not careful. Be polite, and have your facts in order if you have to explain your point next time with the agent.
2007-01-02 12:43:32 · answer #1 · answered by Kevin H 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Her request is out of line - you don't have to leave your house unless you chose or its in the rental agreement that you will not be present while perspective buyers tour the house.
This Realtor is being outrageous with her demands. Does the owner support her conduct? Play hardball, ask her to bring a notarized statement which must say she is 100% responsible for the property, the house, and all its contents while she is there is she still insists you not be home.
2007-01-02 10:31:17 · answer #2 · answered by jack w 6 · 2⤊ 1⤋
I think that would really be up to the home owner. It is there house and they want to sell it. I worked in a real estate office (not a realtor, but as a secretary) that the rentor always gave me a hard time when I tried to schedule appointments, he was turning away potential buyers when it wasn't even his house. It got to the point that the owner instructed me to tell the rentor so and so would be there at this time, rather then ask so for her to ask you ahead of time to leave does not at all sound unreasonable to me.
It would be unreasonable if she just showed up and said you have to leave, but with proper notice I don't see her doing anything wrong. If you have a problem with it, talk to the owner of the house, but my guess is if they really want to sell they will also advise you to leave.
2007-01-02 10:45:03 · answer #3 · answered by strtat2 5 · 1⤊ 1⤋
I've never looked at a house with someone present who was living there. It is normal for the renter/owner to leave during the showing. I've purchased and sold several homes.
2007-01-02 10:24:01 · answer #4 · answered by honey 4 · 2⤊ 1⤋
I'm not a realtor, but it sounds like they are probably within their rights. It is crappy, but I don't know that there is anything you can do about it. Good luck to you!
2007-01-02 10:22:07 · answer #5 · answered by Wannabeadoc06 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Sounds to me like the realator does'nt like you very much. You should have followed her around when she was showing the house. Wearing only tighty whiteys and wife beater, Saying, "Who are you people?"
2007-01-02 10:23:41 · answer #6 · answered by Ricky 1 · 4⤊ 3⤋
Sorry bud,
It's not your house, so theres not much you can do. If they say leave, you leave. If you dont like it, buy the house.
2007-01-02 10:27:07 · answer #7 · answered by jntt19 1 · 1⤊ 2⤋
This is pretty normal. Potential buyers feel more comfotable with no one else there.
2007-01-02 10:23:50 · answer #8 · answered by bernel1403 5 · 4⤊ 1⤋
call the police
2007-01-02 10:20:32 · answer #9 · answered by , 4 · 2⤊ 3⤋