“World's Most Complete Neighborpedia”
Explore:   What's happening in your neck of the woods?

Why is this stranger knocking on my door?

It is always intriguing to check the MLS hotsheet at the beginning of each month and see the multitude of listings that expire (I usually check the MLS hotsheet 30-40 times per day, but since a good number of listing agreements terminate at the end of a month, the "expired listings" category increases dramatically). Between the last day of April and May 1st, 115 listings expired in Charlottesville area MLS (including land, for rent, and commercial properties). Many of these listings will go right back on the market with the same real estate agent providing there is an authorized extension of the listing agreement from the Seller. Some listings will get noticed by other agents who will contact the Seller in order to get an opportunity to re-list the property. Do-not-call list definitely applies in this case (unless the call is coming from the previous listing agent's firm), so a mailing or a visit may be the desirable approach. So if you are a Seller and your property just expired in MLS, don't be surprised if a real estate agent or two show up at your door or send you marketing materials. Real estate agents, take note: here is the information directly from NAR (National Association of Realtors) regarding expired listings and the Do-not-call list:

Can I still call Expired Listings? If you are the listing agent or the agent from the same company, you can contact the seller for up to 18 months after the expiration date of the listing agreement. All other agents need to consult the Do Not Call registry.

Posted Tuesday May 06