Courtesy Appointments
Dear Phyllis,
Several months ago, we purchased our first home, and the seller’s agent was very difficult. Each time we wanted to view the home, we had to make appointments that were convenient for her schedule. After we opened escrow, we wanted to show the home to my mother. We all work, and she refused to meet us after work, only early in the morning or on our lunch hour. Each inspection we had was another scheduling nightmare. Each time we were at the home, she was there hovering over us, like she didn’t trust us. She just ruined what should have been an exciting time for us.
So we closed; yesterday I just saw in the newspaper her advertising she sold our home with our address, like she is some hotshot. Doesn’t she need to ask our permission to advertise our home? New Homeowner
Dear New Homeowner,
Congratulations on your new home. To answer your question: As the listing agent, she does have the right to advertise that she sold her own listing. It’s all public knowledge anyway.
I understand your desire for your mother to share in the excitement and see the home. However, this was most likely not written into your Purchase Contract. Therefore, it was only a courtesy from the seller’s Realtor to allow the showing.
Additionally, the Realtor could have directed you to schedule a visit during one of the inspections. This would have been the standard process.
You can appreciate that it can be difficult for Realtors to schedule courtesy appointments. Typically, we move from one appointment to the next throughout the day. As a result, we often feel exhausted by the end of the day. Therefore, we reserve evenings for family time or for handling negotiations, inspections, and client needs.
In some cases, the seller may also prefer to limit evening access. Many sellers feel worn out from repeated showings and open houses. Therefore, once their home is in escrow, they often want a short break from keeping the home in “show condition.” I am sorry you felt she hovered over you. However, she also has a duty to protect her client’s home and belongings.
Sincerely,
Phyllis Harb
