Targeting Expired Listings With Buyer Bait-and-Switch
Apparently, at least a few overzealous agents at one Twin Cities broker in particular are now trolling for listings using some variation of the following sleazy strategy:
Step #1: target “For Sale” homes that have just expired, unsold, on MLS.
Step #2: show up unannounced at the home with an accomplice, ring the doorbell, and — if the owner answers — say, “we’re here for our 5 p.m. showing.”
Step #3: assuming the homeowner doesn’t slam the door in their face, chalk up the “missed appointment” to a communication glitch**, then — surprise, surprise — segue into a pitch to show/list their home (“as long as we’re already here . . .“).
Ethics Violation
At least a few homeowners are sufficiently flummoxed (or desperate) that this tactic occasionally works.
And yes, such conduct violates Realtors’ Code of Ethics — it’s just that homeowners don’t necessarily know whom to contact.
So, as a public service to any Twin Cities homeowners who’ve experienced such outrageous behavior, here’s the info:
Linda Stoeckicht
Vice President
Minneapolis Area Association of Realtors
(952)988-3126
If Linda isn’t able to help, I’m sure that she can redirect you.
**When challenged, the brazen agents have been known to claim that “the homeowner’s spouse or partner OK’d the showing” — which quickly backfires if said spouse or partner is nearby, or easily reachable.
