A
Winnipeg homebuyer's complaint has led to disciplinary action against two real estate agents. Chantal Orsak filed a complaint with the Manitoba Real Estate Association after buying a house in 2022, citing issues with her agent's handling of the purchase. The association notified Orsak in February that disciplinary measures had been imposed on her agent, Paige Derksen Rodrigues, and the seller's agent, Marcia Bergen.

    Orsak paid $331,100 for the house, which was listed at $249,900 - a difference of more than 30% above the asking price. She discovered issues with the condition of the house after taking possession. The Manitoba Real Estate Association receives about 30 complaints per year on average, with roughly 17% resulting in disciplinary measures.

    The discipline was imposed due to violations of the real estate association's code of ethics regarding duty to the client and fair dealing with all parties involved. The agents were accused of using information from competing offers to gain an advantage for one party. Orsak signed a document acknowledging limited joint representation, but felt that her interests were not protected.

    The Manitoba Real Estate Association says it takes allegations of misconduct seriously and has fully complied with the investigation. However, Orsak feels that the organization should be more transparent about disciplinary findings, as they are currently confidential.