If you have experienced deceptive, unethical, or unfair real estate practices, there are multiple avenues available to report the misconduct and seek appropriate action. Taking the initiative to report these violations not only helps hold dishonest businesses accountable but also plays a crucial role in ensuring fairness and transparency within the real estate industry. By speaking up, you contribute to protecting other consumers from similar harm, discouraging fraudulent and anti-competitive behavior, and supporting efforts to bring justice to those who have been negatively affected. Your actions can help create a more equitable and trustworthy marketplace for all buyers, sellers, and investors.
File a Complaint with the Florida Attorney General
The Florida Attorney General’s Office investigates violations of the Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act (FDUTPA), including misleading advertising, fraudulent transactions, and unfair real estate practices. You can file a complaint online: Florida Attorney General Consumer Protection Division or call the Consumer Protection Division at 1-866-9-NO-SCAM (1-866-966-7226).
Report to the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC)
If a real estate agent or broker engaged in unethical or deceptive practices, you can report them to FREC, which regulates real estate professionals in Florida. Submit a complaint to the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR) at 850-487-1395 or online.
Contact the National Association of Realtors (NAR) or Local Realtor Boards
If the real estate agent involved is a Realtor® (a member of NAR), you can file a complaint with the local Realtor association for violating the Realtor Code of Ethics. Contact the Realtor Association of Indian River County: Realtor Association of IRC or file an ethics complaint with NAR.
Report Antitrust Violations to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
If you suspect price-fixing, market manipulation, or antitrust violations (e.g., restricting access to listings or collusion among brokers), you can report it to the FTC. File a complaint online at FTC Report Fraud.
File a Lawsuit or Seek Legal Counsel
If you suffered financial harm due to deceptive real estate practices, you may have the right to pursue legal action. Consult a real estate attorney to explore options for lawsuits or compensation. If multiple consumers were affected, you may be eligible for a class action lawsuit.
Share Your Experience Publicly
To help raise awareness and hold unethical businesses accountable, you can leave reviews on sites like Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You can also submit complaints to consumer advocacy groups or local media, or fill out our form below.
Taking Action Protects Others
By reporting deceptive practices, you help protect other buyers, sellers, and investors from falling victim to the same tactics. If you need help navigating the complaint process, consider reaching out to consumer advocacy organizations or a real estate lawyer for guidance.
Have you been harmed by a John’s Island or Indian River County Florida Real Estate Agent or Broker? You’re not alone. To learn more, please complete the following form, and a representative will be in contact with you to discuss the details of your experience, at no charge to you.