The People's Court Season 22 Episode 18 Scammed by a Real Estate Agent
- TVPG
- September 26, 2018
In season 22 episode 18 of The People's Court, a case is brought before Judge Marilyn Milian involving a woman who claims to have been scammed by her real estate agent. The plaintiff, Ms. Jones, alleges that the defendant, Mr. Smith, promised to find her the perfect home within her budget, but instead showed her properties that were above her price range and pressured her into signing a contract for a home she couldn't afford.
Ms. Jones testifies that Mr. Smith assured her that the home she was interested in was within her budget, and that he would negotiate a favorable price with the sellers. However, after Ms. Jones signed the contract, Mr. Smith suddenly stopped returning her calls and emails. When she finally did hear from him, she was informed that the sellers had refused to lower the price and that she would have to pay the full amount or forfeit her deposit. Feeling trapped and unaware of her options, Ms. Jones went ahead with the purchase, but now regrets it.
As the defendant, Mr. Smith, takes the stand, he denies any wrongdoing. He states that he did show Ms. Jones properties that were within her budget, but that she insisted on seeing more expensive homes. He also denies pressuring her into signing a contract, arguing that she had ample time to review and consider the offer before signing.
The judge examines the contract and points out several discrepancies, including unclear terms and conditions, and a lack of contingencies or escape clauses that would allow Ms. Jones to back out of the deal if needed. She also notes that Mr. Smith did not provide Ms. Jones with a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) report, which would have shown the fair market value of the home and helped Ms. Jones make an informed decision.
As the trial proceeds, the judge hears testimony from both parties' witnesses and reviews evidence presented by both sides. She ultimately concludes that Mr. Smith did not act in Ms. Jones' best interest and may have even engaged in fraudulent behavior. She orders him to pay damages to compensate Ms. Jones for her losses and to revoke his real estate license.
The People's Court has been a long-running and popular television show that showcases real-life disputes between litigants. Each episode features a new case, with the litigants presenting their arguments and evidence, and Judge Milian providing her verdict and judgment. The show is known for its engaging format and insightful commentary on the legal system, as well as its focus on everyday people and their real-life struggles. In this particular episode, viewers are provided with an inside look at the world of real estate and the potential pitfalls that can come with working with a real estate agent. Overall, season 22 episode 18 of The People's Court is an informative and engaging episode that is sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.