David Hartman

cannot even describe the horrid nightmare that began in August 2020 As a retired realtor 20 years experience in lending.. I have never experienced more bizarre business practices.. First off I contacted the Broker Harley Hendricks. As his website had a direct number. He abruptly directed me to his office Manager.At which point David informed us that the listing I was interested in was being handled by a new agent that was working closely with Katie the listing agent. I explained our situation. Which was pretty straightforward..Relocation from another state. And we would require an experienced agent. He more than assured us that Victoria would be guided and he would oversee everything.. write the offer with every contingency in order to protect our interest.. Feeling comfortable with his friendly demeanor was our first mistake. Victoria called me later that day. And we were on our way to Winslow Arizona 3 days later. The home was beautiful on the outside.. We returned to our hotel room. Wrote up an offer and asked to preview the home again the next day. After reviewing the property inspection. We noted roof issues. I called the agent. She was out of town and Katie would be happy to meet us. I let Katie know our concerns about the roof and could she recommend a roofing contractor. I would be willing to pay the consult fee. As it turned out we fortunately brought our own local roofing contractor.. at the advise of a local contractor we had the pleasure of meeting. Roof contactor informed us the roof was shot. As well as the detached garage. And the chimney was irreparable. Roofing contractor who also ended up being long time friends with Katie (not unusual in a town of 9k population) Came up with a brilliant resolve. He's experienced in insurance claims. And was certain he could get the roof replaced under the owners H.O. policy and he would be happy to assist and guide the owner every step of the way. Done deal. We had one nite left before heading back home. We spoke to Victoria the next day and had to inform her what had transpired while she was absent. FIRST FLAG WENT UP.. I suggested to my husband. Perhaps we should consult a buyers agent. As it can get sticky and I didn't feel comfortable.. In light of the fact we were heading back home the next day. We decided to give Victoria the lead. Once we were home I asked Victoria if she had any suggestions on adding contingencies She responded with she wasn't qualified to do that! I INFORMED HER SHE WAS WORKING FOR ME. THE BUYER. She said she would contact her broker to make sure. I remained patient with her knowing she was new. And to be quite honest she was a really great person. That changed quickly.. As 3 weeks went by. No follow-up on roofing insurance claim. Numerous eSignal documents that were not accurate and most importantly not live. Meaning I couldn't sign them. On August 22 2020 Victoria contacts me at 7:30 pm demanding I go online to sign something else. I had let her know I would be out of communication due to the fires in my neighborhood ..we were heading north. To shelter.. and out of the smoke. NOT TO MENTION I HAD LIMITED INTERNET ACCESS AT MY SON'S HOME. She became insistent. At that point I realized something was terribly off. When I returned home August 25th at 6am sent her an email request to cancel contract immediately. No response from her. Till later that day. Which was unlike her. Then I received 10 esign documents the next day. Again all inactive signatures.. Called her. She said "MY BROKER DEMANDS YOU SIGN THIS FORM. At that point I was done. Contacted a reputable Agent and she basically set my mind to ease. Hired her and proceeded on another property. She also had to assist with getting my earnest money deposit back.AS VICTORIA STATED she had no control and it would be up to Arizona Department of Real Estate and the title company.. Aside from the absurd events. I suggested she sign on with a broker that will properly train and protect her from future DRE complaints.. As of last Wednesday Pioneer title has released funds. At the sellers agreement to do so..after providing proof of the entire debacle We have since found a reputable Broker . In closing I do not blame the new agent. She's new and learning. The Title company and Escrow officer was professional and worked with me to get the earnest deposit back. I am perplexed by the unprofessional manner of the Broker. And still shake my head. If Harley Hendricks is the best and has 29 years experience in Winslow.. Why did no one we spoke to even know who he was?? From local residents and other agents. No one had heard of him. BIZARRE