Owners catch agent on tape after wrangle

Aaron Drever. Photo / Supplied

A real estate agent was caught out on tape by a couple upset over his "unprofessional behaviour" when selling their home.

They have now confronted Remax with the recorded words of its agent Aaron Drever - leading to a high-level meeting next week.

The exact contents of the tape remain unknown but neighbours and estate agents working in the area have been told it contains a contradiction over what the real estate commission would be.

The falling-out between home owner and real estate agent began during the sales process, according to neighbours.

But it went to a new level after Drever sent leaflets around the Titirangi street. His leaflet carried the boast: "Vendor Ecstatic ... Purchaser delighted".

Neighbours said the homeowners were upset at the boast and sent another pamphlet around the neighbourhood. They used a copy of the original - with their own message written across the top.

"Warning!! To our previous neighbours: We are not ecstatic about the whole dealings we've had with Aaron. This flyer is yet another example of the ... unprofessional behaviour we have had to tolerate."

However, new homeowner Tracy Goodwin spoke highly of Drever - she said she was so impressed she hoped to go and work for him.

Goodwin said she believed the property had been listed too high and there had been difficulties getting a realistic price for the house. It was listed for more than $550,000 but eventually sold for $520,000.

Agents working in the area said the couple decided to record Drever after being upset over earlier conversations with him. "At open homes now, any vendor can have a tape or camera.

"You've got to be careful what you're saying."

Drever worked for three West Auckland estate agencies before starting with Remax. He refused to comment, as did his manager.