Realtor, buying FSBO

[James Macovoy]

Hey all! I just want to make sure I'm not breaking (or about to break) any rules.

I'm a Realtor in PA who has been looking for a primary residence for my girlfriend and I. I reached out to some Craigslist rental ads asking if they might be interested in selling instead of renting. My girlfriend and I went to see one of the homes and it seems like we are very close to settling on a price. When we saw the home a few weeks ago, I let the owner know that I was a Realtor, and gave him my card, so he has been notified.

I do not plan on purchasing the property through my brokerage; looking like it will be a straight FSBO transaction (they are hiring a lawyer on their end).

Is there anything else I need to do to make sure I am going about this the right way? Should I have them sign a Consumer Notice?

Thank you for your help!

[Charlie MacPherson]

@James Macovoy Better run this by your broker, pronto. The agency may have rules and your E&O carrier may have something to say about it too.

Be sure you have a written disclosure that clearly states that you're a licensed agent.  You want a paper trail for that - not just handing the seller a business card.

I always assume that everything I say, text or email will end up in front of a jury.  Paper trails for everything is a good start.