You’ve Hired the Wrong Realtor. Now What?

Step 1: Identify the Problem

Before taking any action, take a step back and assess the situation objectively. Ask yourself what specifically isn’t working. Some common complaints include:

• Poor Communication: Your agent doesn’t respond promptly or fails to keep you updated.

• Lack of Market Knowledge: They seem unsure about pricing, trends, or neighborhood dynamics.

• Disorganization: Important deadlines are missed, or paperwork feels chaotic.

• Mismatch in Strategy: Their approach to searching for properties doesn’t align with your preferences.

Understanding the root of the issue will help you determine the best course of action and, in some cases, may even reveal a simple fix.

Step 2: Have an Honest Conversation

Once you’ve pinpointed the problem, the next step is to communicate your concerns to your agent. Sometimes, a candid discussion is all it takes to improve the relationship. Realtors, like anyone else, are human and may not realize they’re falling short of your expectations.

How to Approach the Conversation

• Be Specific: Outline specific examples of where you feel your needs haven’t been met. For instance, "I feel like I’m not getting enough updates on new listings," is more constructive than simply saying, "You’re not doing a good job."

• Stay Professional: Approach the conversation with a calm and cooperative tone. This is about finding solutions, not assigning blame.

• Set Expectations: Let them know what you need moving forward. For example, if quicker responses are a priority, ask if they can commit to replying within a set timeframe.

Many agents will appreciate the feedback and adjust their approach to better suit your needs. However, if you’ve had this conversation and nothing changes, or the relationship feels beyond repair, it’s time to consider other options.

Step 3: Know Your Options If You’re Under Contract

If you’ve already signed a contract with your agent, you may feel stuck, but there are often ways to move forward. First, review your contract carefully. Look for clauses related to performance or termination. Some contracts may allow you to end the agreement early, though this might require written notice or the payment of a termination fee.

You can also consider reaching out to their broker, who is ultimately responsible for supervising their agents. Explain your concerns professionally and ask if the broker can step in to provide guidance or take over the process directly. Brokers are often experienced professionals and may be able to resolve issues or reassign you to another agent within their firm who better suits your needs. 

If terminating the contract isn’t an option or feels like more hassle than it’s worth, you still have options. Tools like Homa can be a game-changer in situations like this, providing resources and guidance to keep your real estate journey on track despite a rocky agent relationship.