How to Fire a Real Estate Agent as a Buyer: What to Know Before You Make the Switch

Key takeaways

• Check your contract: Know whether you signed an exclusive buyer’s agreement.
• Communicate first: Sometimes issues can be resolved before ending the relationship.
• Protect yourself: Always document termination in writing to avoid commission disputes.
• Choose wisely next time: Interview agents and clarify expectations upfront.
  

Buying a home is stressful enough, but what if your real estate agent isn’t the right fit? Maybe they’re slow to respond, you feel a lack of trust in how they’re handling the process, or there’s a conflict of interest that makes you question if you’re truly being represented. If you’ve found yourself asking, “How do I end my relationship with my real estate agent as a buyer”, you’re not alone. 

This guide explains how to review your contract, protect yourself, and find a better fit – whether you’re hunting for houses in Austin, TX, or exploring homes in Chicago, IL – so you can move forward with confidence.

What it means to “fire” your real estate agent as a buyer

When people talk about “firing” a real estate agent, it’s not the same as letting go of an employee. In real estate, the relationship between you and your agent is defined by a buyer’s agency agreement, a contract that spells out how your agent will represent you in the home search. Understanding what you signed is critical, as it determines whether you can switch agents right away or must formally end your existing contract first.

There are two main types of agreements:

• Exclusive buyer’s agency agreement: This means you agree to work with only one agent for a set period of time. If you decide to end the relationship, you may need to formally terminate the contract before hiring someone else.
• Non-exclusive buyer’s agency agreement: This gives you more flexibility since you can work with multiple agents. In this case, you usually don’t have to “fire” your real estate agent, you can simply stop working with them and continue with another agent.

Step 1: Review your buyer’s agency agreement

You can usually fire a real estate agent even if you’re under contract—but the details depend on what you signed. A buyer’s agency agreement explains how long your agent represents you and under what terms. Some contracts let you end the relationship with written notice, while others may still require you to pay commission if you buy a home your agent showed you. Before taking action, review the contract carefully and consider speaking to an attorney for specific guidance. Look for exclusivity clauses, the expiration date, termination conditions, and any potential fees or commission obligations if you switch agents early.

Look for:

• Exclusivity clause: Does the contract prevent you from working with other agents?
• Expiration date: When does the agreement end automatically?
• Termination requirements: Are you required to give written notice or wait a set period?
• Penalties or fees: Could you face fees for ending the relationship early?
• Commission obligations: Will you owe your agent if you buy a home they introduced you to?

Step 2: Identify the reasons you want to move on

If your agent isn’t meeting your needs, you’re not stuck, you can take control of the situation. Common reasons buyers “fire” their real estate agent include:

• Poor communication or unresponsiveness: Calls and emails go unanswered.
• Pressure to buy outside your budget: You feel pushed toward homes you can’t afford.
• Conflict of interest: Your agent may be working both sides of a deal (dual agency) or showing favoritism.
• Lack of local expertise: They don’t know the neighborhood, schools, or market well enough.

Remember: Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make. You have the right to work with an agent who listens, communicates clearly, and always puts your best interests first. If you’re unsure what qualities to prioritize in a replacement, check out this guide on how to choose a real estate agent for tips on spotting the right fit.

Step 3: Talk to your real estate agent first

Before cutting ties, it’s often worth having a direct conversation. Sometimes miscommunication is the real issue and can be resolved with clear expectations. Let your real estate agent know what’s not working – whether it’s availability, negotiation style, or lack of market knowledge – and give them a chance to adjust.

Approach the conversation professionally and clearly. You might say something like, “I feel like I need more frequent updates on new listings” or “I’m not comfortable with the homes I’ve been shown outside my budget.” Framing your concerns in this way can open the door to improvement without damaging the relationship.

A constructive discussion may fix the problem and save you time and potential legal complications.

Step 4: Formally terminate the relationship

If you decide it’s best to move on, the next step is formally ending the relationship.

• If you’re under contract: Request a written release from your agreement. Your real estate agent or their broker may provide a termination form.
• If you don’t have a contract: You can usually stop working with them immediately and choose a new agent.

The best practice is to send a polite, professional termination email or letter. Keep it brief, thank them for their time, and state clearly that you’re ending the agreement. Make sure that any termination notice or other communication follows your agreement’s termination requirements, if any.

Pro tip: If you’re mid-transaction (after submitting an offer) and thinking about changing agents, you’ll need to make sure you don’t miss any key deadlines or responsibilities as a result of the transition.

Sample agent termination letter script:

Hi [Agent’s Name], I wanted to thank you for your time and effort over the past few weeks. After careful consideration, I’ve decided to move in a different direction and will no longer need your services as my buyer’s agent. Please consider this email my formal termination of our agreement. I appreciate your help and wish you the best moving forward.

Step 5: Commission disputes

One of the biggest risks of switching real estate agents is a commission dispute between your former and new agent. These disputes usually involve the concept of “procuring cause,” which determines which agent was primarily responsible for the sale. Importantly, these claims are typically between agents or their brokerages – not between the agent and the client.

For example, if your first agent showed you a property and you later buy that same home through a new agent, the first agent might claim they were the procuring cause and pursue commission through their brokerage. While you’re usually not personally liable for these disputes, they can still cause confusion or delays in your transaction.

To avoid issues:

• Get everything in writing: Request a signed termination release and keep a copy for your records.
• Clarify with the broker: Ask them to specify which properties your former agent may still have rights to.
• Don’t revisit old showings: Avoid touring or making offers on homes your first agent already showed you until you’re fully released.
• Ask your new agent how they handle overlaps: In some cases, brokerages resolve these situations through referral fee agreements rather than declining representation. A transparent discussion upfront helps prevent misunderstandings.
• When in doubt, consult an attorney: A quick legal review can prevent complications later.
  

Step 6: Find a new buyer’s agent who’s a better fit

Once you’ve closed the door with your old real estate agent, it’s time to find someone who’s a stronger match. Look for someone who listens, advocates for your goals, and makes you feel confident throughout the buying process. If you’re unsure where to begin, here’s a helpful guide on how to choose a real estate agent with practical questions to ask before hiring. When evaluating buyer agents, focus on:

• Communication style: Do they respond quickly, clearly, and in the format you prefer (calls, texts, or email)?
• Local market expertise: Can they provide insights about neighborhoods, schools, pricing trends, and future developments in your area?
• Contract terms: Understand exclusivity and termination options before signing a new buyer’s agreement.
• Reputation and track record: Check online reviews, referrals, or ask for recent client references.
• Specialization: Some agents excel with first-time buyers, relocations, or specific property types. Choose one whose strengths align with your needs.

The bottom line when ending a buyer–realtor relationship

Ending your relationship with an agent comes down to knowing your rights and protecting your interests. Review your agreement, be clear about your reasons for leaving, and give your agent a chance to respond. If it’s still not working, end the contract in writing to avoid commission disputes and move on to someone who communicates well and understands your goals. Handling it professionally helps you avoid issues and find an agent who can guide you confidently to your next home.

FAQs on firing your agent

1. What happens if I fire my real estate agent while under contract?

You may still be responsible for commission if you buy a home that your former agent introduced to you. Your obligations depend on the terms of your buyer’s agency agreement and local law, so review your contract carefully and consider consulting a real-estate attorney before taking action.

2. Can I switch real estate agents after making an offer?

Yes, but only if your agreement allows it. Once your offer is accepted, your agent is generally tied to the deal through closing, but you may be able to change agents if permitted under your contract. Before making any changes, review your agreement and talk to your broker or a qualified attorney. It’s important to manage the transition carefully so you don’t miss key deadlines, disclosures, or other obligations in the process.

3. Can I work with multiple real estate agents at once?

Only if you haven’t signed an exclusive agreement. If you did, that agreement generally obligates you to work with a single agent for the term of the contract.

4. Do I have to pay my realtor if I don’t buy a house?

Typically no, but if you signed an exclusive buyer’s agreement, you may still owe fees depending on the contract terms. Always check the terms of your agreement.

5. What are the risks of firing a realtor?

The most common risk is a commission dispute—for example, if your previous agent claims they were the “procuring cause” of the home you purchase. Clear communication with the broker and written releases can help reduce this risk.

6. Can I fire my realtor without notice?

If you didn’t sign an exclusive agreement, usually yes. If you did sign one, you’ll likely need to provide written notice and follow the termination procedure in the agreement.

Disclaimer: This is not legal advice

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