Sorry, But I Can’t Speak to You
Posted in 
My KarenRhodes.com site has a "Your Home’s Value" button. This is a request for a market analysis on your home to give you an idea of what your home might bring on the open market.
I have been getting a rash of people requesting this information who already have their home listed with another REALTOR®. Unfortunately I have not been able to provide a market analysis to any of these people. I have responded by explaining since they are represented I am unable to assist them at this point. Article 16 of the Code of Ethics addresses interaction with represented parties. Basically, I can’t do it.
I take that back, there is a loop hole in article 16. It’s Standard of Practice 16-6 which says if you contact me I "may discuss the terms upon which they might enter into a future agreement or, alternatively, may enter into an agreement which becomes effective upon expiration of any existing exclusive agreement."
While it is permissible if you contact me, I will not do anything that might be construed as unethical or improper. I have seen too many instances where the the listing agent claims another agent contacted their seller client and the other agent claims the seller contacted them. We call it "going behind someone elses sign". It leads to grievances being filed and damages the reputation of the second agent even if they didn’t do anything wrong. So my policy is don’t do it, period.
If you are nearing the end of your listing agreement and wish to speak to me about your home please, wait till your current contract expires. I’m sorry but my reputation is very important to me and I hope you understand.
Filip Brunner said,
November 1, 2007 @ 9:19 am
Dear Mrs: Rhodes
It is truly refreshing to see someone concerned with ethical issues.
I have been a lawn care professional for over 11 years, so I deal with ethical issues all the time.
Hope you have a nice day.
Sincerely: Filip Brunner
P.S. GLC is all-ways happy to help with your or your clients lawn care needs.423-255-4714