Sometimes, no matter how much effort you put into the relationship, you need to break up with your real estate agent. Whether you’re buying or selling a home, your agent plays a critical role in your success, and if it’s not working out, you shouldn’t be afraid to take action.
However, breaking up with a real estate agent isn’t as simple as ghosting a bad date—it’s often a legally binding relationship that requires a clear and professional approach. Here’s everything you need to know about why and how to move on from an agent, while protecting yourself and your transaction.
Why You Might Want to Fire Your Real Estate Agent
There are many valid reasons why a buyer or seller might decide to part ways with their agent.
“Great reasons to break up with your agent include that they don’t have a solid strategy or plan for your success, the agent doesn’t know how to pivot the plan if things change, the agent is not responsive, supportive or reasonably available, it’s a bad personality fit, they don’t possess the traits that are most important to you, [or] you don’t like how they think [or] strategize,” says Ina Sajovich, broker associate at WK Real Estate in Denver.
For sellers, frustration often stems from a lack of results. Your home has been on the market too long without selling, your agent isn’t keeping you informed or responding promptly, or a negotiation fell through.
For buyers, issues can include not finding properties that meet your needs, the agent not listening to your preferences, or facing multiple failed offers with no progress.
Bruce Ailion, broker/attorney at Re/Max Town and Country in Atlanta, explains, “It’s a similar situation with buyers: You are not finding homes that meet their needs, you are not listening to them, [and] you are not returning calls or keeping them up to date.”
How to Break Up With Your Real Estate Agent
Since working with an agent often involves signing a contract, breaking up requires a formal approach—no ghosting allowed! Here’s how to end the relationship the right way:
1. Review Your Contract
Start by reading your agency agreement carefully. Contracts often include cancellation clauses that outline how to notify your agent (usually in writing), any fees or obligations you may have upon termination, and the duration of the contract.
For buyers, contracts may allow you to simply wait out the agreement, but sellers often face greater financial implications.
2. Put It in Writing
You’ll need to provide a written notice of termination to your agent. This ensures you’ve clearly communicated your intent to break up.
“Should a seller want to break up with their agent, I recommend this to be done in writing, stating the reasons for a breakup,” says Owen Salkin, residential associate manager at The Graham Salkin Group at Compass in Los Angeles.
3. Involve the Broker or Manager
If you’re unhappy but want to avoid starting from scratch, consider reaching out to the agent’s manager or broker. A manager can mediate and address communication issues or suggest another agent within the same brokerage who better fits your needs.
“The manager should first do their best to resolve the issue(s) and continue the relationship,” Salkin adds.
4. Ask for a Contract Termination Form
Once you’ve communicated your intent to terminate, your agent should prepare a formal termination document. This legally severs your agreement and specifies any compensation you may owe for time or marketing expenses.
5. Wait Out the Contract (If Necessary)
If termination isn’t possible, buyers may sometimes choose to wait for their contract to expire. However, selling or buying a property with another agent while your current contract is active can lead to serious legal and financial consequences.
What Happens If You Don’t Officially Break Up?
Failing to formally end your agreement can create complications, especially for sellers. For example, if you sell your home independently, you may still owe a commission to your agent. Working with another agent while still under contract could result in legal disputes and additional fees.
David Pridgen, broker/owner at Realty One Group Excellence, warns sellers: “With this situation, I would assume the agency agreement is still in effect, which would result in the seller having to pay their realtor a commission based on the listing agreement.”
Always follow the proper legal channels to avoid unnecessary headaches.
How to Avoid Breaking Up With Your Real Estate Agent
Breakups are tough, even in real estate. Fortunately, most can be avoided with better communication and preparation upfront. Here’s how to ensure you find the right agent from the start:
1. Be Clear About Your Expectations
“Being clear on what you are looking for in an agent is helpful,” says Sajovich. Ask yourself what you want in an agent, such as an aggressive negotiator or someone focused on win-win solutions, how often you expect updates, and what kind of personality you work best with.
2. Do Your Research
Look at online reviews, interview multiple agents, and ask for references before signing a contract.
3. Communicate Openly
If issues arise, address them quickly and directly. Sometimes, a simple conversation can resolve misunderstandings and reset expectations.
Final Thoughts: Breaking Up Isn’t Always Bad
While no one wants to part ways with their real estate agent, sometimes it’s the right choice for a smoother and more successful transaction. By following the steps outlined here—and ensuring you’ve done your due diligence beforehand—you can navigate this process professionally and protect your interests.
If you’re considering a breakup, take a moment to reflect on what went wrong, and use that experience to find the right agent for your next step in the home buying or selling journey.
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