Thanks to everyone for all the great advice! I have been speaking to my agent, and she too agrees that the broker is holding the money illegally. The sellers of that home had made threats to go with another listing agent, and had been clear that they did not want us to get the money back. I figure that the check was cashed under pressure of that real estate company, to appease the sellers. I believe the broker doesn't want to send back the check, for fear of the agent losing the listing, and continually tells our agent that the sellers won't sign off on the money. The seller's approval is not required, as many of you pointed out, but like I said, I think there is more to this going on...something rather shady. We're giving the title company a few more days to give back the money, and will then take legal action. We may try to file a criminal complaint, or possibly place a lean on the property. - Wed Jul 16 2008, 10:21
MVPs or 'Most Valuable Players' are key Trulia Voices members who have been contributing high-quality content throughout 2008 and providing valuable advice to consumers and real estate professionals.