Firing Listing Agent

[Jake Zhang]

I have a listing agent on one of my properties who’s not communicating with me at all. Conversations has all been one way and despite clear direction on actively reporting progress, he continues to fail to meet expectations. When trying to collaborate to find solutions on short term rentals, he again fails to present any decent ideas. Recently I found out that there was an offer on the table from a potential buyer that was never presented to me. I found out through the buyer, and by the time I found out the offer was closed. When confronted, he simply replied he thought it was a “ridiculous offer” that he didn’t even care. I’d like to fire the agent, because there’s a clear gap on how we work, but there’s still a lot of time left on the contract. How should I proceed with this? Any comments?

[Marc Winter]

Tell the agent how you see things.  If he won't release you from the listing, speak with the Broker of Record.  If that doesn't get results, you may contact the state real estate regulating agency and file a complaint.

Unless you instruct the agent directly on NOT presenting all offers, they have a fiduciary responsibility to present EVERY offer.  Really, case closed.  They will understand.  Or not, in which case they have a lot more to lose than one unhappy client.