Just call, text, or email them something like, “I’m sorry, but I’m going to put a pause on buying a home right now,” or, “I hate to do this, but my partner and I decided to work with another real estate agent. ” Let the agent know you’re going another route as soon as you possibly can. Agent work is time intensive, and it’s a little unfair to take your time breaking the bad news.
Depending on where you live and what your contract says, you may need to pay the seller’s agent you’re breaking up with a 1-2% commission of the sale price or a flat fee.
There may be a clause that says you can break up if your realtor doesn’t fulfill your needs, or if you haven’t found a home you like in a certain number of months.
“I’ve really enjoyed viewing properties with you, but after careful consideration, my partner and I have decided to put the home buying on pause. ” “Unfortunately, with our work schedules, we’re looking for someone who will be able to set up showings in the evening. We’re going to need to find a new agent. ” “I’ve loved working with you, but I’m going in a different direction. ”
“I really appreciate everything you’ve done for me. I know we asked a lot of you and it did not go unnoticed. ” “We’re deeply indebted to you for all of the work you’ve done. I’m really sorry things didn’t work out. ” “I’m sorry we’re putting the search on pause. It just isn’t the right time for us. I do really appreciate everything you’ve done for us, and I apologize for putting you out. ”
“We really liked looking at properties with you, but it always felt like we were late to the party when it came to putting bids in. My partner and I want to move quickly. ” “It’s honestly just a scheduling thing. I know you’re super busy in the morning but that’s the only time I can go to look at properties. ” “You didn’t do anything wrong. You were excellent. We’re just putting a hold on the home selling since our moving plans fell through. ”
Make sure they agree to a statement like, “I just want to confirm you won’t enforce our exclusivity agreement. ” If you don’t get proof they released you from the contract, you may end up running into legal trouble. The point of an exclusivity agreement is that it’s legally binding to only work with that agent, so it’s key you get proof they’re okay with it.
A bottle of wine if they’ve mentioned a love of vino. A gift card to a local restaurant that’s universally loved. A bath bomb, massage gun, or fancy soap set so they can engage in some self-care.
If the real estate firm thinks you’re going to make a fuss, leave bad reviews, or pursue legal action, they’re probably going to push your agent to drop you without putting up a fight.
This is a little bit of a sneaky move, but if your real estate agent isn’t letting you out of the contract and they aren’t trying to meet you halfway, it’s fine to go over their head.
Most of the time, agents won’t pursue any legal action when people break exclusivity deals. However, it’s certainly possible that your agent ends up suing you. Talking to a lawyer will clarify just how risky this move might be for you.
If you’re in a rush to buy or sell a home, you may be better off just working with the agent you’re under contract with.
Look for someone who is highly responsive and doesn’t leave your calls unanswered. In a hot market, you have to move quickly! You should like and trust your realtor. If someone gives you questionable energy or you’re uncomfortable around them, move on. Ask potential realtors how many deals they did last year. Ideally, you can find someone who did more than 2-3 deals, but not so many that they’re probably swimming in work right now. If you’re unfamiliar with the area, you’re best off working with a local who has been in the game in that city or area for a long time.
