Unhappy with Your Realtor®? What to Do Next

What to Do When You Don’t Like How Your Realtor® Is Performing

Finding the right realtor® is a crucial part of your Edmonton home buying or selling experience. This professional serves as your guide, advisor, and negotiator during one of the most significant financial decisions of your life. But what happens if you're dissatisfied with their performance? Too often, buyers and sellers feel stuck with a realtor who isn't meeting their expectations because they’re unsure how to address the issue.

This blog post explores what you can do when you're unhappy with your Edmonton realtor®. We'll discuss the signs it's time to consider a change, steps to take before switching, how to find a new realtor®, and how to set a strong foundation for a successful partnership. By the end, you'll have the tools you need to make confident decisions and ensure you're getting the service you deserve.

Signs You May Need to Switch Realtors®

Not every realtor®-client relationship is a perfect match, and that's okay. However, recognizing when it's time to move on is vital. Here are some common signs your realtor® may not be the best fit:

1. Poor Communication

Is your realtor slow to return your calls, emails, or texts? Frequent miscommunication or lack of responsiveness can lead to missed opportunities, especially in fast-moving markets. A good realtor should provide timely updates and always be available to answer your questions.

2. Lack of Market Knowledge

Your realtor’s® expertise in the local market is key to helping you buy or sell at the best price. If they don’t seem to understand trends, fail to provide competitive pricing strategies, or don’t know the area well, this could be a red flag.

3. Unprofessional Behavior

Professionalism is non-negotiable. If your realtor® frequently misses appointments, behaves disrespectfully, or fails to follow through on commitments, it might be time to reconsider the partnership.

4. Lack of Effort in Marketing Your Property

For home sellers, effective marketing is essential. If you're listing your home and your realtor® isn't providing high-quality photos, hosting open houses, or using digital platforms, they may not be putting in the necessary behind-the-scenes work.

5. A Personality Mismatch

Sometimes, the issue isn't about skills but about personalities. If you feel uncomfortable communicating with your realtor®, or they don’t seem to understand your preferences, the relationship might not be productive.

Steps to Take Prior to Switching Realtors®

Before jumping ship, it's worth addressing the issue with your current realtor® first. Clear communication can often resolve misunderstandings or frustrations. Here's how to approach the situation:

1. Express Your Concerns

Schedule a conversation with your realtor® and calmly explain your concerns. Be specific—mention instances where performance didn’t meet your expectations and discuss how their actions have impacted your buying or selling experience.

2. Give Them an Opportunity to Improve

Some issues, like communication style or transparency, can often be fixed with feedback. Give your realtor® a chance to improve before deciding to cut ties.

3. Evaluate Your Expectations

Consider whether you may need to adjust your own expectations. For example, expecting your property to sell within a week in a slow market might not be realistic.

4. Consult the Brokerage

If the realtor® belongs to a brokerage, you can discuss your concerns with the brokerage’s management. They may mediate the situation or connect you with another professional within their team.

How to Change Realtors®

If you're still unhappy after addressing your concerns, changing realtors® may be the right choice. Here are steps to ensure a smooth transition:

1. Review Your Contract

Check the agreement you signed with your current realtor®. Most agreements include provisions about terminating the contract. For sellers, this is known as the “listing agreement,” and buyers may have signed an exclusive buyer agency agreement. Look for clauses outlining penalties for early termination.

2. Terminate the Partnership Legally

Once you've identified how to legally end your working relationship, put your decision in writing. Ensure you fulfill any obligations in your contract, such as giving notice or paying cancellation fees.

3. Find a New Realtor®

When looking for a new realtor®, prioritize doing thorough research:

• Ask for Recommendations: Friends, family, and coworkers are often great sources of trusted referrals.
• Check Online Reviews: Platforms like Zillow or Yelp provide detailed reviews of local agents.
• Conduct Interviews: Speak with multiple candidates before making a decision. Ask about their experience, communication style, and approach to your unique situation.

4. Notify All Parties

Inform your new realtor® and your old one once the transition is finalized. Ensure your old realtor® removes any listings associated with your property.

Making the Most of Your New Realtor® Relationship

Your new realtor® is a fresh opportunity to reset expectations and start strong. Here’s how to build a collaborative and effective partnership:

1. Set Clear Expectations

At the start of the relationship, outline your goals and how you’d prefer to communicate. Do you want daily updates? Weekly check-ins? Make your preferences known.

2. Stay Engaged

Stay active in the process by asking questions, sharing feedback, and keeping the lines of communication open. While your realtor® is there to guide you, your involvement will help ensure a smoother experience.

3. Be Honest

If you’re unsure about something—or if the service isn’t aligning with your expectations—speak up. Your realtor® can only provide the best service if you’re transparent about your needs.

Satisfaction is Key to a Successful Sale or Purchase

Your realtor® plays a pivotal role in your home buying or selling experience, so don’t settle for less than you deserve. If your current realtor® is missing the mark, don’t be afraid to address concerns or make a change. Finding the right professional can make all the difference in achieving your goals.

Have you experienced switching realtors® before? Share your story in the comments below or contact us for more tips on navigating the home buying and selling process.