Question:
“We listed our home 3 months ago. Even though our agent is with a big company and seemed very professional, he’s terrible. He’s made several big mistakes (wrong # of bedrooms and square footage on the flyer, etc.) and isn’t doing what he promised. Also, the price he recommended was way too high, which is part of why we haven’t sold our home yet. Is it possible to cancel our listing and hire another agent?”
Answer:
Remember, a real estate license no more makes a good agent than a driver’s license makes a good driver.
I suggest you talk to the agent, express your specific concerns, and give him a chance to improve. Keep an open mind and don’t just look for mistakes, also look for what he’s doing right.
If things don’t change for the better within a reasonable time (or if you feel it’s just a lost cause and don’t want to give him another chance), ask him to let you out of your agreement in the interest of good customer relations. If he refuses, call his broker and see if he’ll convince the agent to cancel the listing.
But if that doesn’t work, you have very limited legal rights to get out of the contract. This is why always tell people to hire agents based on track record. Anyone can work for a large home, look professional, and suggest a high price.
I hope he improves and gets your home sold. Good luck!
