Forum Archive

The BK house I was going to buy was at the “contract out” stage–the broker’s website even said so in big red letters!–meaning I had signed a contract and had gotten it to the desk of the seller’s lawyer in less than two weeks of my offer being accepted. Before I signed, my lawyer did his due diligence, I applied for a mortgage, and had the house inspected My signed contract sat in the seller’s lawyer’s office for 2 days before I got word that another broker (not the seller’s broker) had contacted the seller directly with a higher offer (it’s worth mentioning that this offer had fallen through the first time around). Though the offer came in directly to the seller and came in after my contract was negotiated and signed (by me), the seller signed a contract with the other party instead of with me (after countless back-and-forths about the contract, inspection, etc). I spent thousands of dollars getting ready to buy the house/sell my home, only to be told in a one sentence email that my contract was being voided and my check was being returned to me. I know I have no legal rights, as the contract was not fully executed. I am just wondering if anyone knows if what the outside broker allegedly did is in fact illegal. She knew the seller was about to sign another contract, so she contacted her directly. She also knew that her client’s previous offer was rejected b/c she might have trouble getting a mortgage. Aside from wondering if such alleged acts on the part of the broker are illegal, I’m also wondering if this sort of thing is typical. It’s been an awful experience. Any insight/ability to commiserate/advice is appreciated. Thanks so much. -nyb