Is it time to fire your agent? Here are signs indicating that you’re better off with a different agent.
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They don’t work full-time
It’s important for clients to know that not all agents work full-time. An agent who only works a few hours a week can’t make themselves fully available to you. This limits that amount of time they can spend handling transactions, answering questions, and promoting listings. If your agent is distracted by other jobs, it’s best to work with a professional who can give you their full attention.
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They take too long to respond
If your agent isn’t prompt in returning your calls and messages, there’s a good chance that they’re not responding to potential buyers fast enough either. When this happens, it’s likely that your agent is working another job or they’re simply not good at prioritizing clients’ needs.
Generally speaking, agents should be able to return messages fairly quickly during business hours, or at least within 24 hours of receiving a piece of communication. If they consistently fail to give you a quick and satisfactory response, it’s time to move on.
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They’re not showing you all the offers you’re getting
Listing agents are obliged to present all offers to their clients, including low ball offers. It’s their job to negotiate the sales price when an offer comes in. Moreover, they should be available to show your home to qualified buyers whenever there’s interest in the property. That includes their own buyers, other agents’ buyers, and buyers who aren’t working with an agent.
It can be a problem if the agent is only showing your home to their own buyers in order to collect a higher commission. It will take longer to sell your home if they are ignoring other agents’ buyers and buyers who don’t have representation. One indication that this is happening is if you hear from buyer’s agents and interested buyers through other channels, but not directly from your agent.
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They pressure you with sales tactics
If you’re a buyer, you should steer clear of agents who use hard-sell tactics to pressure you into a home purchase. While your agent should paint a realistic picture of competition and high home prices,they should do so in a straightforward manner. No matter how hot the market is, they shouldn’t make you feel anxious about missing out on a home or making an offer over sales price. This is unethical behavior and should not be tolerated.
Can I change my agent?
Your agent works for you and not the other way around. If they aren’t fulfilling their role, you should be able to terminate your working relationship and find another agent who can get things done in a competent and professional manner.
Work with a top agent in New Jersey
Pagnotta Homes assists clients in Bridgewater, Warren, Basking Ridge, and other nearby communities. Call them at 908.436.7947 or send them a message here. As recipient of the NJAR Circle of Excellence Sales Award (Platinum Level) from 2011 to 2015, Cindy Pagnotta and her partners provide exceptional service.