Can You Fire Your Real Estate Agent?

Buying or selling a home can be a stressful situation. When you are having issues with your agent, it can become untenable. The most common complaint from clients is that their agent does not communicate with them enough and aren’t responsive to their needs. While all relationships can have differences, how do you know if it’s time to fire your real estate agent? 

If the relationship has reached the point where it’s unproductive, it’s typically better for both parties to terminate the agreement. If you find yourself dreading a conversation with your agent or if you complain about them to others, then you are wasting valuable time by trying to salvage the relationship and it may be time to move on. 

Firing a real estate agent is not as simple as it sounds, however. A listing or buyer’s agent agreement are legal contracts with an agreed-upon time frame. Unless the agent agrees to cancel the contract, you are obligated to continue working with them. One suggestion is to reach out to the broker of the agent to ask to cancel or work with another agent; the contract is held between you and the brokerage, so they have some flexibility. You may also offer the agent a referral fee, paid when the transaction concludes. 

Choosing the right real estate agent is a critical component of a successful transaction. Before signing any contract, understand the options for cancellation and add a clause, if possible. If you have a contract and want to fire your agent, stay calm and work with your agent and their broker to find a fair solution.