This is going to be a change from the usual commentary about the fast and sexy world of real estate law. Before you get too disappointed, hear me out. How we approach our work is in many ways as important as the result we get. Our commissioners have a strategic plan. A part of that plan is a formal statement of our Mission, Vision, and Values. Here they are: Mission To protect the public through the licensing and regulating of real estate licensees Vision To insure public confidence in real estate transactions Values Effective management of our resources, excellent customer service, innovation, and honesty and integrity These are not just business slogans. They apply across our office. Here are some thoughts on how we strive to translate them into practice on the legal and investigative side.

Consumers come to us in a variety of ways. Some believe there probably is wrongdoing in the situation in which they are involved. Some are just curious to understand how the law applies to their situation. Some are so frustrated with the process of property buying or selling that they are exasperated, or just plain angry. We do our best to help them understand where they are in their respective situations. We also try to diffuse some of their bad feelings when they are present. After all, we have to proceed in accordance with the law. There is no place for emotion in the process. Common courtesy, civility, manners, and thoughtful diplomacy are still in style. Nerves can get frazzled on both ends, but we try to treat everyone with respect. We are all humans with imperfections.

Licensees are sometimes defensive or frightened when they get an inquiry from us. Every licensee should know that we do not assume that anyone has violated the law. We need to know the facts. Every situation is approached with an open mind and evaluated as objectively as possible. Formal charges will not be filed without giving the licensees involved every opportunity to explain their side. This is only fair, as we have already gotten an earful from the complainant.

Many of our calls and emails are from real estate licensees who want to make sure they understand how to comply with the law in a particular situation.  We believe we serve everyone by helping to prevent problems and we spend a whole lot of time doing this. We would prefer to head off potential problems than to deal with the consequences. Consumers are really the winnerswhen things are done right.

Again, it should be noted that the information presented in the preceding article relates ONLY to people buying & selling houses in the state of ALABAMA and their agents.