I recently worked with Bob Howard from Bob Howard Real Estate at 36 Fire Island Pines Boulevard on a short term rental starting on July 3 through July 8, 2013. I first met Bob in 2012 when close friends recommended him. Bob seemed the natural choice to contact regarding our "spur of the moment" rental - as we had developed a professional relationship in 2012 when we were pursuing a purchase in the Pines. My rental request to Bob was sent via email on Monday, July 1. On Tuesday July 2 he forwarded pictures of a lovely home that was available for rent (which also appears on his website). Throughout Tuesday, after various discussions /emails on arrival/departure and the fee, Bob contacted me the evening of July 2 confirming I had secured the rental. It all seemed perfect- and I was very appreciative. As Bob requested, I emailed my personal details and credit card information the evening of July 2. Later that same evening, Bob emailed back as I had improperly typed the credit card information - and the card did not go through. I did not see this email (re: credit card number) until 6:30 AM on July 3 - at which time I immediately sent the corrected credit card number via return email. On July 3 at roughly 9:30 AM, I was in a business meeting when I received a call from Bob Howard on my cell phone, citing the following: - Sorry, the house is not ready for rental, full of personal things - The owners are personal friends of mine, currently in Barcelona - Really glad the credit card did not go through. - Sorry but I have nothing else (rental) for you. The entire discussion was very "matter of fact" - without any remorse for the misunderstanding, concern for our plans and group - and without any suggestions or offer to help (e.g. connect us to other brokers, find another house, and try to solve our problem). We were packed, and ready to take the 3:30 ferry to the Pines. As I was unable to have an in depth conversation with Bob when he called, I was left many unanswered questions such as; why the transaction had gone so far (as he had claimed to be discussing rental and fees with owners throughout), why did the house condition never come up, and this total reverse face just hours after all was a go. This chain of events didn't make sense. So, as Bob had originally been recommended to me by close friends and I didn't want to come to a conclusion which was not favorable regarding him, on July 5, 2013 I sent Bob Howard a very detailed email outlining my concerns and requesting to talk with him - as we had developed a business relationship and I wanted to make sure I understood why this happened and not jump to my own conclusions. The reach out seemed like the right thing to do. As of July 9, 2013 - My email has remained unanswered. This type of response is not credible to me, and as a client - is unacceptable. My family and friends were packed and excited to enjoy some time out on the island. It was the first time we had, as a group, ever reached out "spur of the moment" to secure a rental. The end result of this unfortunate incident - I will not engage Bob Howard at Bob Howard Real Estate again, for any future purchase or rental. I will not recommend Bob Howard as I am uncertain he has the client's best interest at heart. And in the future, I will make sure to correctly type my credit card number! read more