Important points
Check your contract: Check to see if you signed an exclusive buyer agreement. Communicate first: In some cases, you may be able to resolve the issue before ending the relationship. Protect yourself: Be sure to document your termination in writing to avoid fee disputes. Please choose wisely next time. Interview the agent and clarify your expectations upfront.
Buying a home is stressful enough, but what do you do if your real estate agent isn’t the right fit? Maybe they’re slow to respond, you feel a lack of trust in how they handle the process, you have a conflict of interest, and you wonder if you’re truly being represented. If you’re wondering how to end your relationship with your real estate agent as a buyer, you’re not alone.
This guide will teach you how to review your contracts, protect yourself, and find a better fit, whether you’re looking for a home in Austin, Texas, or Chicago, Illinois. Then you can move forward with confidence.
What does it mean to “dismiss” a real estate agent as a buyer?
When people talk about “firing” a real estate agent, it’s not the same as firing an employee. In the real estate industry, your relationship with your agent is defined by a buyer representation agreement, a contract that sets out how your agent will represent you in your home search. Understanding what you are signing is very important as it will determine whether you can switch agents immediately or whether you need to formally terminate your existing contract first.
There are two main types of contracts:
Exclusive Buyer Agency Agreement: This means you agree to work with only one agent for a set period of time. If you decide to end the relationship, you may need to formally end the contract before hiring someone else. Non-exclusive Buyer Agency Agreement: Increase flexibility by working with multiple agencies. In this case, there is usually no need to “fire” your real estate agent, you can simply stop working with them and continue with another real estate agent.
Step 1: Check the buyer’s agency agreement
Generally, you can fire your real estate agent even if you have a contract in place, but the details will depend on the terms of the contract. A buyer agency agreement states how long the agent will represent you and on what terms. Some contracts allow you to terminate the relationship with written notice, while others require you to pay a commission if you purchase a home that your agent recommends. Before taking any action, review your contract carefully and consider consulting an attorney for specific advice. Check for exclusivity terms, expiration dates, termination terms, and any fees or commission obligations you may incur if you change agents early.
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Exclusivity clause: Does the agreement prevent you from working with other agents? Expiration date: When does the agreement automatically terminate? Termination requirements: Do you need to give written notice or wait a certain period of time? Penalties or fees: Can there be a fee if you end the relationship early? Brokerage commission obligation: If I buy a home that was referred to me by an agent, do I have to pay the brokerage commission?
Step 2: Identify why you want to move on
If the agent doesn’t meet your needs, you’re not stuck and can take control of the situation. Common reasons why buyers “fire” their real estate agent include:
Poor or unresponsive communication: No response to phone calls or emails. Forced to buy outside of your budget: You feel like you’re being forced into a house you can’t afford. Conflict of interest: Agents may be working on both sides of the transaction (dual agency) or exhibiting favoritism. Lack of local expertise: Not knowing enough about your neighborhood, schools, or market.
Remember: Buying a home is one of your biggest financial decisions. You have the right to work with an agent who will listen to you, communicate clearly with you, and always have your best interests at heart. If you’re not sure what qualities to prioritize when making a purchase, check out this guide on how to choose a real estate agent for tips on finding the right real estate agent.
Step 3: Talk to your real estate agent first
It’s often worth talking to them directly before cutting ties. In some cases, miscommunication is the real problem and can be resolved with clear expectations. Tell your real estate agent what’s going wrong, whether it’s availability, negotiation style, or lack of market knowledge, and give them a chance to make adjustments.
Approach the conversation professionally and clearly. They might say things like, “I think I need to update you more often about new listings,” or “I’m not satisfied with the homes I was shown that were over my budget.” Sorting out your concerns in this way can open the door to improvement without damaging the relationship.
A constructive discussion can resolve the issue, save time, and potentially avoid potential legal issues.
Step 4: Officially end the relationship
If you decide it’s best to move on, the next step is to officially end the relationship.
If you are under contract: Request cancellation in writing. Your real estate agent or their broker may provide you with a termination form. If you don’t have a contract: You can usually stop working with them immediately and choose a new agent.
Best practice is to send a polite and professional termination email or letter. Be concise, thank them for their time, and clearly state that you are terminating the contract. Ensure that termination notices or other communications comply with the termination requirements of the agreement (if any).
Pro tip: If you’re considering changing agents in the middle of a deal (after submitting an offer), you want to make sure you don’t miss any important deadlines or responsibilities as a result of the transition.
Sample script for agent termination letter:
Hello [Agent’s Name]I would like to thank you for your time and effort over the past few weeks. After careful consideration, we have decided to move in a different direction and no longer require your services as a buyer agent. Please consider this email to be my formal termination of your agreement. We thank you for your support and wish you all the best in your future endeavors.
Step 5: File a dispute
One of the biggest risks when switching real estate agents is a commission dispute between your old and new real estate agent. These disputes typically involve the concept of “procuring cause” which determines which agent has primary responsibility for the sale. Importantly, these claims are typically between agents or their intermediaries, not between agents and clients.
For example, if the first agent introduced a property and then purchased the same home through a new agent, the first agent could claim that they were the cause of the procurement and pursue a commission through the brokerage. Although we are usually not personally liable for these disputes, they can still cause disruptions and delays to your transactions.
To avoid the problem:
Get everything in writing. Request a signed termination release and keep a copy for your records. Be clear with your agent: Ask your original agent to specify which properties he or she may still have title to. Don’t watch old shows again. Until you are fully released, avoid visiting or making offers on homes that have already been shown to you by your first agent. Ask new agents how they handle duplicates. In some cases, brokers may resolve these situations through referral fee agreements rather than declining representation. Having transparent discussions in advance can help prevent misunderstandings. If in doubt, consult an attorney. Prompt legal investigation can prevent complications later on.
Step 6: Find a new buyer’s agent that’s a better fit
Once you’re done with your old real estate agent, look for someone who fits your stronger criteria. Look for someone who will listen to you, champion your goals, and give you confidence throughout the buying process. If you’re not sure where to start, here’s a helpful guide on how to choose a real estate agent and practical questions to ask before hiring. When evaluating buyer agents, focus on:
Communication Style: Are responses prompt, clear, and in your desired format (phone call, text message, email)?Local Market Expertise: Can you provide insight into neighborhoods, schools, price trends, and future developments in the area?Terms and Conditions: Understand exclusivity and termination options before signing a new buyer contract. Reputation and track record: Check online reviews and testimonials, and ask for testimonials from recent customers. Specialties: Some agents excel with first-time buyers, relocations, or specific property types. Choose the one that has strengths that suit your needs.
Key points when ending the buyer-real estate agent relationship
At the end of the day, you need to understand your rights and protect your interests before ending your relationship with an agent. Review your contract, clarify your reasons for leaving, and give your agent a chance to respond. If that doesn’t work, end the contract in writing to avoid commission disputes and move on to someone who communicates well and understands your goals. By being professional, you can avoid problems and find an agent who will guide you to your next home with confidence.
Agent Termination FAQ
1. What happens if I fire my real estate agent during the contract?
If you purchase a home that was recommended to you by a former agent, you may still be charged a commission. Your obligations will vary depending on the terms of your buyer agency agreement and local law, so review your agreement carefully and consider consulting a real estate attorney before taking any action.
2. Can I change real estate companies after making a job offer?
Yes, but only if your contract allows it. Once an offer is accepted, the agent is typically bound to the deal until closing, but you may be able to change agents if the contract allows. Review your contract and consult your broker or qualified attorney before making any changes. It is important to manage the transition carefully to avoid missing important deadlines, disclosures, and other obligations during the process.
3. Can I work with multiple real estate agents at the same time?
This applies only if an exclusive contract has not been concluded. If you do, the contract typically requires you to work with one agent for the duration of the contract.
4. Do I have to pay a real estate agent if I don’t buy a house?
Although usually not required, even if you sign an exclusive buyer agreement, you may still be obligated to pay a fee depending on the terms of the agreement. Be sure to check the terms and conditions.
5. What are the risks of firing a real estate agent?
The most common risk is fee disputes. For example, if your previous agent claims that they were the “procuring cause” for the home you are buying. Clear communication and written releases with your broker can help reduce this risk.
6. Can I fire my real estate agent without notice?
If you haven’t signed an exclusivity agreement, the answer is usually yes. If you sign one, you may be required to provide written notice and follow the termination procedures in the agreement.
Disclaimer: This is not legal advice
