I have an interesting TRUE story for everyone.  I had a home under agreement, which I listed, that needed some extra TLC before closing.  The seller was short on cash so they went the route of a "short sale" through a mortgage company in CA.  Through the normal process my clients were approved and the property finally closed.  This is where is gets rather frightening........

The evening of the closing I had a call come through on my cell phone and it was the mortgage broker who handeled the short sale.  He claimed, "I pushed through the approval so I will call you later tonight with my home address and I want you to mail to me $1500.00...........at first I didn't respond, how do you respond to this kind of shocking behavior??????  I pride myself on being reputable, honest, and try everyday to exhibit integrity.  I think I was in shock, or at least, disbelieved my ears.  The mortgage broker(associate) said he would call back later.  I simply made an affirmative sound and disconnected.  I immediately telephoned the senior vice president of this company, whom I had had conversations throughout the approval process, and explained what had just transpired.  He said he would take action immediately.  I expressed concern to make sure the closing papers, etc. were processed before he took action because it took so long to get my property to this point.   And then this happens at the very end!!!

The following day the VP telephoned and assured me the "gentleman" had been fired and he apologized for any distress the poor judgement caused me, but I am left feeling........How many other people did this person claim if they didn't send him a money order for X amount he would stop the apporoval, etc.

I NEVER want to relive this nightmare and keep faith that most people conduct themselves according to the rules, laws, and with the utmost integrity.

Agents beware of this type of behavior!!!