Antonia Roman

Today's Real Estate Market is so different from past markets. Many Sellers are suffering because they are not able to sell their homes. They may have reduced the price two or three times, and it still did not make a dent. Statistics say some Sellers are just walking away from their homes. We are now starting to see some more homes unattended, vacant, and definitely heading to the foreclosure status.

As a Broker Sales Agent who has served both Clients and Customers for 9 years now, I have done everything professionally in my power to provide a memorable service. On occasion, I get calls from past clients and customers letting me know they are doing well, that they are happy with their homes, and will definitely refer their family members. It is a good feeling when you know that you have done your job well.

But, there does come a time when you have done everything you could to service a client, and unfortunately. that client was so overwhelmed with their circumstance that they do the unexpected. They commit suicide.

I had been providing services for a client of mine about 3 years now and had the opportunity to get to know them well. Whenever there were any housing related problems my client would come into my office; We would sit down and brain storm together how we would tackle the issue. When we were not talking business I had the opportunity to get to know the entire family and even participated in picnics. It was a good and open client relationship.

I had just spoken with my client the day before to let them know about a situation that was occuring at the property they were trying to sell. The conversation went well and I knew it was something that could be resolved. My client had been trying to sell their home now for about 9 months and we just got a breakthrough (an offer). Simutaneously, my client was going through something I was not aware of. Something that was so overwhelming that apparently my client felt the only way out was through death. When I received the disturbing news the very next day that that individual had taken their own life, it was a shock. I knew that my client was a very strong individual and had been through many circumstances in their lives. There is no way, it would have gotten to this extreme. According to the family members, that individual just could not take it anymore.

Who could have guessed that in these trouble times people would choose that option. It is usually unlikely, but with desparate times comes desparate measures. The unthinkable becomes the reality.

I was heart felt with sadness. I was numb. I was upset. I was wondering why they did not come into my office, we could have sat down and battled it out together. Unanswered questions will remain with me throughout the rest of my Real Estate career.

For now, all I can do is hold on to the positive memories of this individiual. Remind myself, that in life we all make our choices. My client decided this was their best choice, and no matter what I have to respect it.

Yes, we are in a market where almost every other home for sale is experiencing a pre-foreclosure. What can you do as a homeowner who is struggling to pay their mortgage loan, speak to your lender about a remodification. Banks these days are suppose to negotiate with homeowners who are having a difficult time paying their mortgage due to the increase of their adjustable interest rate loan. They must NEGOTIATE! If you call your lender and they give you the run around you as a consumer have the right to call your local banking commission and put in a complaint. That's right! Why should you loose your home because someone is not willing to work with you on your financial situation. Or better yet, end up selling your home and having to move back in with your in-laws. Stay in control of your life, if you find yourself in such a situation, speak up. Better yet, contact your local congressman. Get someone on your side to help you during these trying times. A useful resource guide to homeowners is the Hotline: 1-800-Call-FHA. Remember, never pay a fee to have someone help you remodify your loan.