Ancient Realtor Secret..."misplacing" or hiding lock box?

[Sahana R.]

OK BP. I'd like your input in this matter. I've been looking for a foreclosure to flip in Chicago, Currently, my agent and I are attempting to see a foreclosure right now. I'm noticing that whenever it is a really good deal or a hot REO property the agent does not answer, respond to messages, or if they do respond - we'll go view the property and the lock box is mysteriously "lost". But a few days (or a week) later there is a contract on the home. It seems to just be happening with REO in which the bank has hired an agent. I think some agents are holding out for their friends or business partners and is making it difficult for other investors to see and bid on the properties. So my question is...Has anyone experienced this? Where it seems the agent is shady or doing something shady so buyers cannot bid?