Agent Ignores Requests To Remove Lock Box After The Close Of Escrow

After numerous requests to the listing agent to remove the lock box after escrow closed, the buyer (now new homeowner) took matters into their own hands.

Is a lock box trespassing on the property after the close of escrow?

Requests to remove the lock box seemingly went ignored because day after day the lock box remained on the front door. The lock box was empty. The key in the lock box was removed and given to the new owner after the close of escrow when the buyer took possession.

Well over a week later the listing agent arrived at the property to remove the lock box and discovered it was gone. The agent sent me text message advising that the lock box was gone and asked me if I could arrange for them to get it back.

What happened to the lock box? I had no clue. Come to find out, the new owner, my buyer client, removed the front door lock which then enabled them to remove the lock box from their front door. The owner said she was sick and tired of waiting for the agent to remove it. I certainly understand that.

I actually think the solution was a creative one and pretty easy to do. The owner has every intention of giving the lock box back to the agent. Now that I know what happened to the lockbox, of course I will facilitate arrangements for the agent to get it back.

What is your opinion? Did the owner have a right to remove the lock box?

What would you do if the listing agent ignored requests to remove the lock box?

How long is too long to wait for the lock box to be removed before taking matters into your own hands?

Thanks for your thoughts on this. I imagine there will be vast and varied opinions on this matter.

Kathleen Daniels, Broker-Owner of KD Realty, San Jose Short Sale Agent, Certified HAFA Specialist (CHS), Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Short Sale Negotiator (CSSN), and REO Default Certified Professional (RDCPro), serving San Jose and surrounding San Jose Communities in Santa Clara County - Silicon Valley.

DRE# 01366594

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