It happens. You hire someone to help you buy or sell a home in Guelph and, for whatever reason or combination of reasons, you decide that it’s time to part ways.
But you’ve signed a representation agreement with that agent. Are you “stuck” until that expires?
In short, no.
But first things first. Let’s talk a bit about preventing this from happening in the first place.
As a part of your interview process while you’re choosing a Realtor, address this issue. Ask them how they would handle things if the relationship turned sour and you wanted out of the contract. Would they honour your wishes and cancel the contract? I’ve had this question asked of me at listing presentations, and I’ve always said two things. First, I’d appreciate being given the opportunity to resolve whatever issues have led to hard feelings. But second, if ultimately we had truly reached and impasse, I would grant the request. Simply put, I don’t want to work with people who don’t want to work with me.
Next, be sure to communicate with your Realtor if you find that he or she isn’t living up to the terms of your agreement. Are you not receiving updates from them? Are they slow in responding to your calls or emails? Tell them about these things right away. Don’t let things slide, because all that tends to do is let resentments simmer until they boil over.
If all else fails and you simply feel you want out of the relationship, start with a conversation with your agent and simply ask them to cancel your agreement. If your Guelph Realtor refuses or dodges your questions about breaking your agreement or otherwise just doesn’t seem to be moving forward with your wishes, you have options.
It’s important to note that the agreement you’ve made is actually with that agent’s brokerage and not simply with him or her individually. That’s a good thing for a lot of reasons. If you’re getting nowhere with the agent, contact his or her Broker of Record and explain the situation. Make it clear that you want out of the agreement, or that at the very least you cannot continue working with that particular Sales Representative and ask them what they can do to resolve the situation.
As always, choose your Guelph Realtor wisely. Get the right person for the job, someone professional and reliable, and you won’t have to worry about a nasty break-up.
