Is your home not selling? Or perhaps you're struggling to find the perfect home to buy? Maybe a real estate transaction fell apart, and you're starting to wonder if your agent is to blame. Before we place all the blame on them, let's consider other factors that could be at play. The housing market can be unpredictable, your criteria might be too narrow, or external circumstances could have caused the transaction to fail. However, if you've determined that your agent is at fault or that your personalities clash, it may be time to consider firing them.
Steps to Firing Your Real Estate Agent
Step One: Get it in Writing
Before taking any drastic measures, reach out to your agent and see if there's a way to resolve your differences. If it becomes clear that a resolution is impossible, ask the agent to provide a written cancellation notice. This document should relieve you of any future obligations and ensure that no commissions are owed.
Verbal agreements or simple written cancellations might not be enough. Some contracts still allow the agent to receive a commission if a buyer who previously expressed interest ends up making an offer later, even after the contract is canceled. To protect yourself, it's crucial to obtain a written notice that completely releases you from any further obligations.
If your agent agrees to a written cancellation without any strings attached or future commissions owed, then congratulations! You've successfully fired your real estate agent. However, it's always a good idea to consult a licensed real estate attorney if you have any doubts.
Step Two: Read the Contract and Contact Their Reviewing Broker
To proceed with firing your agent, familiarize yourself with the terms of the agreement you signed. Understanding the contract will equip you with the necessary knowledge when reaching out to the "higher authority" within the agent's brokerage.
Most real estate agents have a reviewing broker or designated broker who provides oversight. If your agent has one, it's recommended to contact that person. Look for the broker's information in your contract or search for it online. Make sure to communicate your concerns and seek guidance on how to move forward.
Step Three: Seek Help from State Authorities if Necessary
If steps one and two fail to resolve the issue, you may need to involve the state authorities. However, in most cases, diligently following the first two steps should help you avoid this last resort. If you ever find yourself in this position, consult the relevant state agency for assistance.
Handling Fee Disputes and Exploring Other Options
What if your realtor insists on charging a fee for canceling the contract? Many contracts have different cancellation policies, and while some agents may waive the fees, others may not. If you prefer not to pay, it's best to follow the previously mentioned steps to resolve the situation amicably.
Can you explore other options while still under contract with your current agent? Absolutely! You are free to interview other realtors and consult with different realty companies. Remember that realtors and companies should not actively initiate contact with you while you are in an active contract. However, you are welcome to reach out to them for discussions. Be cautious not to commit to a new contract until you have properly canceled your existing one.
Cancel Anytime Contracts for No Charge
When it comes to our own real estate business, we prioritize fairness and flexibility. We believe in allowing our clients to cancel contracts anytime with 24 hours' notice, without any charges or strings attached. The only exception is if we are in the midst of a pending deal. However, if that deal falls through, our clients are once again free to cancel with no additional obligations.
Our commitment to providing excellent marketing and services, along with reasonable commissions, sets us apart. If you're looking to sell or buy a home in Oregon or Washington, we'd be delighted to speak with you. Give us a call at 503-714-1111 or chat with our friendly bot on this site.
Date: April 27, 2022
