Over the weekend I did a BPO for FISER (LFS). It was pre-foreclosure and they wanted pictures of subject and MLS pics of comp sales and listings.

I drove 40 miles both ways for this one, but had other bpos from other companies to do in the area so did not mind. If this was the only order in tha area, I would have declined it.

Well, when I did my analysis, there were absolutely no comparable sales, w/i one year, on the MLS for the area. I found my comparable sales by utilizing the MLS - Public Record Search and my title companies' public record search. I gave LFS/Fileser 3 comparable sales W/O PICS. I stated in the comments the problem with not being able to obtain the pics. I did have three current listing pics from the MLS.

I "timely" submitted what I had to the lender.

They emailed this morning and said they wanted "sales comp" pictures. I told them why I did not have them and they said "we read that on you form". They replied, "you have to go back and get pics of the sales comps" or "use comps w/pics". I again stated I have no comps with pics, but will be willing to go back Now, today, if you pay me $40 to go back and take pics oof the comps I used or give me another couple of days and if I get some other orders in that area (40 miles away), I'd be more than happy to take the pics of the comp.

They cancelled the order because I said I would not go back and take the pics.

Was I too harsh in my stance on this one?

First off, I wouldn't accept an order for an area I was unfamiliar with. Second, I would research the subject/area before accepting. And third, if I committed to completing an order, I'd certainly finish it, even if I had to go back, because I screwed up on something.

I apologize if this sounds harsh, but I firmly believe that once you agree to do something, you should follow through until it's done correctly.

I probably would have gone back to take the photos and "chalked it up to experience". I've had a few orders that, for one reason or another, figured I've lost money on if my time is counted. On the other hand, there are enough that take me 30 minutes to complete to make up for those.

Personally, I always look at comps first before I drive out to the subject. Once in awhile I have to modify the comps once I see that subject property is on a major route, or is in terrible condition, or whatever. But 99% of the time, I can use the original comps I pulled.

Although I understand why you didn't want to go back, it's not the fault of FISERV that there were not photos. And if that's what they asked for in the first place, they deserve to get them for the original amount agreed on.

Sorry, Papa Lou! You sound like you might be regretting it, am I right?

I would double check the order, sometimes they say "if MLS photos are not available please provide originals." I'm with Katie, finish what you started even if it means making another trip. Hopefully you didn't burn your bridge with them.

Interesting viewpoints. Thanks.

Papa lou, what area of LA are you in?

Papa Lou, unfortunately I agree with the others. I would have done it and just chalked it up to a lesson learned.

Just another thought...are photos supplied by your assessor? One of the counties I work with supply online photos of the properties. I've never seen any other county do it but it does come in handy.

Bob Haws

I tried to email you directly, but for someone reason I couldn't. I am in Hollywood, CA.

As much as I hate to admit it, I've made the mistake of not making sure I had MLS comps with pics and had to drive back out to take original comp photos.

When it's their mistake, I bill them for a 2nd trip.....When it's my mistake, it's on me.