Introduction

The Maryland Real Estate Commission (MREC) oversees and regulates real estate practices in Maryland. Filing a complaint with the MREC is a formal process for addressing grievances against real estate licensees. As an attorney representing a client, it is essential to ensure that the complaint is thorough, accurate, and well-documented to facilitate a successful resolution.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Gather Relevant Information

Before beginning the complaint process, collect all relevant information and documentation related to the complaint. This includes:

• Client's Details:

  • Full name

  • Contact information (phone number, email address)

  • Relationship to the case

• Licensee's Details:

  • Full name

  • License number

  • Brokerage information (name, address, phone number)

• Property Details:

  • Address

  • Transaction type (sale, lease, etc.)

  • Dates of transaction

• Supporting Documents:

  • Contracts

  • Emails

  • Disclosures

  • Inspection reports

  • Any communication between the client and the licensee or brokerage

2. Obtain the Complaint Form

The MREC complaint form can be found on the Maryland Department of Labor website. Download and complete the form.

3. Fill Out the Complaint Form

Complete the complaint form with the following information:

• Section I: Complainant Information

  • Client's full name

  • Client's mailing address

  • Client's phone number

  • Client's email address

• Section II: Respondent Information

  • Licensee's full name

  • Licensee's license number (if known)

  • Brokerage firm's name

  • Brokerage firm's address

  • Brokerage firm's phone number

• Section III: Property Information

  • Address of the property involved in the complaint

  • Type of transaction (sale, lease, etc.)

  • Date of transaction

• Section IV: Nature of the Complaint

  • Provide a detailed description of the complaint. This should include:

    • A clear and concise explanation of the issues

    • Relevant dates and events in chronological order

    • Specific actions or omissions by the licensee that led to the complaint

    • Any violations of the Maryland Real Estate Code of Ethics or other regulations

• Section V: Supporting Documentation

  • List all supporting documents included with the complaint. Attach copies of these documents to the complaint form. Ensure all attachments are clearly labeled and referenced in the narrative.

4. Draft a Cover Letter

Include a cover letter summarizing the complaint and any attempts to resolve the issue prior to filing the complaint. The cover letter should be addressed to the MREC and include:

• A brief introduction

• An overview of the complaint

• A list of attached documents

• Your contact information as the attorney representing the client

5. Review and Finalize

Review the completed complaint form and cover letter with your client to ensure accuracy and completeness. Make any necessary revisions.

6. Submit the Complaint

Email the completed complaint form, cover letter, and supporting documents to the following email address:

• Email: dawn.mazzaferro@maryland.gov

• Subject Line: "MREC Complaint Submission - [Client's Name]"

7. Follow-Up

After submitting the complaint, follow up with the MREC to confirm receipt. Monitor the status of the complaint and maintain communication with your client regarding any updates or requests for additional information from the MREC.

• Conclusion

• Filing a complaint with the Maryland Real Estate Commission is a formal process that requires careful preparation and thorough documentation. As an attorney, your role is to ensure that the complaint is well-supported and clearly articulates the client's grievances. By following these steps, you can help your client seek a fair resolution through the MREC.