If you are tired of dealing with the ever-increasing problem of unethical members, PWR can step in to help you solve your problem against the offender. PWR understands most members do not want to file a formal complaint for various reasons such as lack of proof, too time consuming, insufficient penalties and fear of retaliation. We have heard your complaints and are pleased to offer you a way to make the filing of your ethics complaint easier, less time consuming and ultimately, a faster resolution of the problem.
Before you file any complaint, we always suggest you first contact the Broker or manager of the office and attempt to settle the matter. If talking with the Broker or manager is unsuccessful, we encourage you to file because If nothing is done, it becomes the new normal.
While you will still have the option to file a formal complaint, the R.E.D. Program is designed to take the burden off of members who are reluctant to file a formal ethics complaint.
Examples of when to file a R.E.D. Complaint:
Advertising infractions; lack of communication; interference; inadequate paperwork; not turning over keys within the contractual timeframe. Unresponsive to phone calls, texts or e-mails; Unwillingness to show property; No response to offer that was submitted.
Is the R.E.D. Program Anonymous?
Sometimes, but it is mostly anonymous only for advertising issues. In the majority of cases, the offender will know you have filed since you ultimately want a current issue resolved
How to file:
Complete the R.E.D. Questionnaire available at our website, pwr.net, under Professional Standards.
What Happens:
PWR will contact the Broker and agent directly when a clear violation occurs and ask the offending agent to act affirmatively. Calls and letters will be tracked so the Grievance Committee can file a formal complaint if it becomes necessary.
You will be notified of the Response and what action the offender will take. If PWR does not hear back from the offender, you can move forward with filing a formal complaint.
I list of common complaints / violations
Advertising
- Advertisement or flyer does not present a “True Picture”
- No B.R.E. Number on your advertising
- Lack of Brokerage Information on Advertising (must list Broker or firm name)
- The listing of other agent’s Active, Pending or Backup Listings in a Neighborhood Market Report without acknowledging credit to the Listing Agent.
- The listing of “Sold Properties” without the proper disclosures, such as: “We do not represent to have listed or sold the above referenced properties”
- Claiming to be #1 agent without adequate proof to back up your claim
- Unauthorized use of M.L.S. Photos
Communication:
- Unresponsive to phone calls, texts or e-mails
- Unwillingness to show property
- No Response to offer that was submitted
Interference:
- Contacting the Complainant’s client while under contract
MLS:
- Changing of expiration date
- Name of non-member in the MLS
- Status of the Property in the M.L.S. is incorrect
- Sharing of Supra Key and/or MLS password
Misc.:
- Inadequate paperwork for client
- Not turning over keys within contractual timeframe
- Having a non-member show property
- Other:_________________________________
Please feel free to contact PWR if you have any questions about our program. Lori Smith, V.P. Professional Standards – (714) 245-5525 or loris@pwr.net
