You Are Not Stuck With a Real Estate Agent

One of the biggest misconceptions I see in real estate is that once you sign a contract with an agent, you’re stuck with them until it expires. That’s simply not true.

If your agent isn’t communicating, isn’t representing your interests well, or you’re unhappy with the service you’re receiving, you have options. A contract doesn’t give an agent permission to stop earning your business.

In Ohio, buyer agency agreements specifically address this. If you want to end the relationship, the agreement outlines the process. In many cases, it can be as simple as providing written notice. Every situation is different, so read your agreement and, if you have questions, call the broker. If the relationship isn’t working, you can also ask to be reassigned to another agent within the brokerage or request to be released from the agreement.

The same principle applies to buyer representation compensation. Just because a commission amount was agreed to at the beginning of the relationship doesn’t mean it can’t be discussed later. If that fee becomes an obstacle to purchasing a home, have the conversation. Everything in a contract is subject to negotiation if both parties are willing to negotiate.

Now, let’s be clear. Contracts matter. They are legally enforceable, and both parties have obligations. Agents deserve to be paid for the work they perform, and consumers should honor the agreements they make. But those agreements also come with an expectation that the agent will provide competent, professional representation.

Real estate should never feel like you’re being held hostage.

If you’re not receiving the level of service you were promised, speak up. Start with your agent. If that doesn’t resolve the issue, contact the broker. Good brokers want satisfied clients, and good agents want to earn your business every step of the way.

That’s how we operate on my team. If we ever aren’t the right fit, we’ll have an honest conversation. We’d rather have clients who choose to work with us because of the service we provide, not because they feel trapped by a piece of paper.

Your signature starts the relationship. Great service is what keeps it going.