A Persimmon sales agent has been put on leave after he was caught on camera giving the middle finger to a potential homebuyer.
The incident, highlighted by MailOnline, occurred during an argument in Derby at a property the agent was selling.
The offensive gesture happened at Buttercup Leys estate, a development with homes priced up to £400,000, which has been the centre of several disputes, including unsanctioned fencing and accusations of harassment during home purchasing.
A Derby buyer shared with MailOnline that he went to the sales office with his family earlier in the month to look at a house.
He recounts: “We had a 4:30pm viewing arranged. Just before that, at 4:26pm, they emailed to cancel, but we only saw it after returning home.”
Upon entering the sales office, the buyer says the sales agent began belittling them.
The man narrates: “I told him we had a booking. He seemed surprised and then, noticing my family, asked if all of us were for a 3-bedroom house.
“I responded that we’d all be living and contributing there; it isn’t his place to comment. I felt demeaned.
“He then accused me of having a poor attitude and refused to show us the house.”
The buyer says when they left the office, the agent followed and insulted them.
He goes on: “The agent taunted us about not affording the house and flaunted his gold tooth while using foul language, so I retorted about his lack of customer service.”
Additionally, the buyer alleges: “He provoked us, boasting about his gold tooth and challenging me to a confrontation outside of work. He was very offensive; it was a distressing experience to be threatened in that manner.”
However, witnesses claim both the salesman and the homebuyer exchanged harsh words.
A spokesperson from Persimmon Homes told MailOnline: “We’ve suspended the sales advisor for a full inquiry. It seems both sides were involved in an unfortunate incident, and our employee responded inappropriately.
“Persimmon prioritizes customer service, and we deeply regret this conduct. Everyone, staff and clients alike, deserves to be treated with respect at all times.”
Sales agent suspended for giving prospective buyer the middle finger
