Reporting unlicensed activity is not only something you should consider a duty, but it’s never been easier, so there’s no excuse for not letting the DPBR know about an individual performing licensed duties without a valid license.

Question:  I am a broker on one side of a real estate transaction and having been working with a real estate agent on the other side.  I generally run a check on the real estate professionals I’m working with to be sure I have correct contact information, email addresses and phone numbers and I am unable to locate any information on this realtor.  I’ve asked around and it appears she is practicing without a license.  How do I report this unlicensed activity?

Answer:  You may report activity you believe is conducted in violation of Florida’s licensing requirements by visiting the Department of Professional and Business Regulation online.  See the link below.  The DPBR has made it very easy to report such activity by creating a phone app.  All of the information you need is listed on the DPBR’s web page. 

Along with reporting unlicensed activity via the DPBR app, you may email the information to the DPBR or call a hot line.  In today’s age of technology, it’s very easy to stay in contact with the DPBR for any reason.  You should report the suspected violation as it’s the unlawful practice of a profession that create problems for those of you who are in compliance with the laws, rules and regulations of your profession.

Here’s the link to get you started.

Thanks for asking,
Fred Gray

KEEPING YOUR SELLER HAPPY 
There’s nothing more frustrating to your seller clients than finding their home a mess after a showing.  Since the rain will continue for a couple of weeks, it’s a great time to remember these five simple rules for keeping your seller clients happy when the weather is messy.

First, ask your seller clients to provide a mat outside of every entry where potential buyers may enter the home.  It’s a good idea to ask that they have mats available inside as well.  For those mats that are outside, suggest something welcoming that says, “You’re going to love what’s inside this place!”

Second, ask your seller clients to place an umbrella stand near the front entry so that potential buyers aren’t tempted to bring a soaking wet umbrella inside.  Umbrellas are a necessity this time of year and the awaiting stand will keep them from spattering water everywhere.

Third, be sure your seller client has a coat rack near the front entry because what’s the point of clean dry feet and an umbrella stand if a wet raincoat gets worn through the home? 
Fourth, be sure to have shoe covers available.  If your client hasn’t thought to place these near the entry already, then by all means, get some immediately.  Even if potential buyers take off their shoes, these shoe covers ensure that a dirty sock won’t touch that brand new carpet.

And finally, be courteous.  Most showings occur while the seller is away from home, so if you see that you and potential buyers have left any evidence of your visit, be sure to clean it up.  Whether it’s water, tracked in mud or other debris, take a few moments to put the home back in order before leaving.  Carry a “clean up our mess” kit in your briefcase, such as wipes, paper towels or even a tiny broom and dust pan.

Keeping the sellers happy isn’t all that difficult if you put a little thought into it before you show the home.  These five rules for keeping sellers happy work even when it’s nice and sunny out, so get to the store and stock up on those items that help you keep their space tidy!