Problem Solver: Couple Says $1.95 Radio Ad Offer Cost Them $300

Radio advertisements...it's tough to avoid them if you're tuned in to your favorite station. When one Upstate viewer heard an ad for a cheap list of foreclosed homes he signed up. But he found out the deal wasn't what he asked for and he says it cost him more than $300. Dianne Derby got him his money back and gives you some important warnings about advertisements. It's a 7 On Your Side Problem Solver.

"My daughter had just gotten married and they were wanting a house," said Anthony Bradburn.

So when Bradburn heard an ad on 92.5 FM telling listeners "Bargain Network Homes" was offering a list of foreclosed homes for only $1.95 he jumped on the opportunity. But the deal changed as soon as he and his wife, Sherry, called and gave out his debit card info...they say that's when the salesperson offered them more deals and coupons at a cost of nearly $40 a month.

"I told them cancel it 5 times," said Mrs. Bradburn.

Then months later they realized the company had been debiting their account.

"It is $39.80 and they started taking it out in February and I think they stopped in July," said Mrs. Bradburn.

WESC's Vice-President Bill McMartin told me he didn't have time to talk to us on camera but said the company pulled to ad as soon as we sent them the Bradburn's complaint. He told me they are concerned about listeners who feel they are being taken advantage of.

"I thought it was great because it helped us get our money back," said Mrs. Bradburn.

We tried to contact Bargain Network by phone but couldn't get through. The only thing we did get was a letter copied to us that was sent to Mr. Bradburn apologizing for the inconvenience but saying they didn't have any record of cancellations before July 10th.

"(Bargain Network) said 'I'm just going to give you your money back'," said Mrs. Bradburn. "I said 'What about the recording?' He said 'We just can't seem to get our hands on it'."

They're not alone in their frustrations. Maria Audas from the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs says her office is dealing with 3 similar complaints about the company but she warns in cases like these the responsibility is on the consumer.

"In the case of radio ads they are verbal promotions and if you don't actually get something in writing then there is no liability on the part of the company," said Audas.

Audas warns consumers always check out a company before they do business.

"If you hear an ad on the radio station today, if it's a reputable company it's going to be there tomorrow so you have time to do your homework," said Audas.

It's warnings the Bradburn's want everyone to remember.

Don't forget 7 On Your Side makes it easy for you to investigate companies. To check with the BBB click here. To investigate a company with the SC Department of Consumer Affairs call (800) 922-1594.