Buyers keep texting after closing

Buyers keep texting after closing.

Ask Phyllis: a blog series of frequently asked real estate questions.

Dear Phyllis,

My sister recently sold her Toluca Lake home. She hired a local Realtor and had more than ten offers. The highest bidder waived their inspection contingency. Although her buyer waived their inspection, they hired their inspector. Weeks after the sale was completed, the buyers texted after closing. One of the outdoor lights wasn’t working… my sister told them to change the bulb. Did she leave to have any extra air conditioning filters? These questions continued for months, with my sister responding. The most recent was that the roof was leaking. She has not responded. I have two questions: This now seems serious. What should she do? Not that I am thinking of selling, but when I do, should my agent put in writing that he/she won’t provide my contact information to the buyer?

Outraged

Dear Outraged,

Your sister should contact her real estate agent, whose role is not over just because escrow closed. Had your sister been aware of a recent roof leak or repair, she should have disclosed that information on the seller’s disclosures. If your sister was aware of a leak and failed to disclose it, her Realtor or an attorney needs to help her devise the appropriate action.

If the seller discloses a roof leak or repair, the seller’s Realtor should remind the buyer’s agent that the buyer signed the disclosure. In addition, both the buyer and buyer’s agent must read and understand it before signing. Next, the seller’s agent should review the buyer’s inspection report. In many cases, the inspector notes that the roof is worn or near the end of its life. As a result, the inspector often recommends a licensed roofer for further evaluation. The seller’s agent should then share these findings with the buyer’s agent.

Although these situations seem simple, your sister should rely on professional support during negotiations. Regarding your second question, I find it unlikely that a Realtor will share a client’s contact information with the other party. However, during the final walkthrough, a buyer may ask for the seller’s phone number, and a seller may accidentally provide it.

Therefore, I advise my clients not to share personal contact information. Instead, the buyer’s Realtor should contact me, and I will communicate with my client.

Finally, if you sell your home, you should state clearly that you want to protect your privacy. If needed, you should put that instruction in writing. Experienced Realtors prioritize client privacy.