Need Help: Just moved to NYC and Ripped Off by R.State Agent

[EdJones]

Originally Posted by NJ Chutzpah

did you sign a lease?

no, we didn't. The day we were supposed to receive the apartment he didn't have the lease ready. So never signed a lease.

[rlrl]

you said the application fee included the broker's fee. while i don't know how the application fee works, i think you should be able to retrieve the broker's fee less $15. definitely call the atty general and ask them what you can do. is the brokers portion based on a percentage of the rent?

[Elvira Black]

Hmmm....this is why I've never thought Craigslist was a very good idea. Seems like there's lots of ripoff artists on there. And yes, some real estate agents can be very shady. But I think you have a good case. Going to see them again might be a waste of time and a lot of aggravation til you have some legal recourse to back you up as others have mentioned.

[Queens2QueenCity]

Do you have anything in writing stating that the apt would be available on Sept.1 and what would occur if it wasn't available. Just re-read what you signed with said realtor. If there were no stipulations then threaten a lawsuit since the realtor "broke" the agreement by not presenting you with the apt. on said date.

[straightshooter]

as for getting ripped of by a broker, RE agent, or whoever dealing w/property in this city, take a number. they are out of control here. however, i wouldn't take the $500 conversion. if you have that broker's name and place of business and a receipt (cancelled check will work) for your scratch, i would head down to small claims court. these people obviously suck. why not get a judgment against them? you might be able to wriggle some consequential damages, as well. i'd look into it.