Steve, the simple words, “You are not alone,” have helped more than one of our distressed homeowners cope with foreclosures, short sales–and with the shared stresses of loan modifications.Still, there is deep shame for so many who have to go through these ordeals.

Tni, Thanks for your input and perspective–with which I totally agree. Your client learned a valuable lesson. Regardless of one’s financial standing, all should have desire for privacy respected.

Robert, I am thinking it is a question we should ask each client and that it should be a distinct “opt-in” as to whether listings should be shown. As for ones not listed, the owner should have the opportunity to opt out immediately. This is a serious issue–at least from my perspective.

There is no such thing as privacy anymore. At least not for the majority of us. Honestly I feel privileged to be one of the last generations raised before the internet took over and cell phones were a constant. At least I know how peaceful life can be.

This blog reminded me of a rather “aggressive” client years ago. He was a nice person but he simply would not listen about some things. He couldn’t understand why people who had homes listed did not want to show them. I tried explaining time and time again. Finally one time, he insisted on seeing a short sale home with a tenant where it was obvious they did not want to show the home. At the appointment, he barged right behind me with his air of authority sizing up their home. The children burst out into tears and screamed that they did not want to move. He was not prepared for that — but I saw it coming. He was not a heartless man so it affected him deeply. After that, he got it.

What do people think they are going to do with this information? Fine now you have it — now go try to profit off another person’s misery. Trust me you are late to the party — they already have scores of outfits targeting people in foreclosure. And if you are an average person with normal sensibilities what are you going to do with this info?

It may be useful to know if every home in a neighborhood is in foreclosure — but beyond that this just increases misinformation for buyers and frustration for homeowners in foreclosure, especially given that we have had an inventory shortage of homes for years in many areas.

“Why can’t I see that home?”

“Can you knock on the door and see if they want to sell?”

Most of all is the info going to be accurate and updated? That has been Zillow and Trulia’s biggest issue. I spend so much time correcting their info.

I suppose it i inevitable … and it means more client education.

Here we go…..

Even though this is public information, it has not been widely advertised to the general public and I’m ashamed that the almighty dollar means so much to these two companies that they would intrude on someone else’s pain.

At some point, there needs to be a stop to this madness. It’s in poor taste and not in the least bit necessary. I guess you have to consider the source, unfortunately!

Thanks, Bob! We need no more vultures–and enough is enough. Hope all is well with you!

Melina, Thanks for your commentary. We who have our boots on the ground have witnessed the pain and fear of those who are in danger of losing their homes–as well as those who already have. I’m sure Zillow and Trulia have already heard an earful from those of us who oppose their disclosures–but not enough for them to cease publication of this data. More voices are needed–and thanks for yours.

Well done! This is crossing way over the line and will bring into people’s lives a great deal of vultures. Life can be hard enough. Zillow and Trulia – you need to reverse this. It is wrong.