Can I fire my realtor while under contract? If so, how?

Buying or selling a home? Your real estate agent can make or break your experience. But what if that relationship isn’t working out? Many people wonder: Can I fire my realtor while under contract? The short answer is yes. But it comes with some important caveats—all of which we will discuss in more detail below. 

We’ll explore what it means to fire a realtor while under a binding contract, how to do it the right way, and how to protect yourself during the process. 

What is the most common complaint filed against realtors?

The most common complaints involve a lack of communication, unprofessional behavior, and misrepresentation during real estate transactions. That’s why it’s important to work with licensed, experienced agents and check references to avoid issues.

Understanding real estate contracts

Before thinking about firing your real estate agent, you need to understand what kind of contract you’ve signed. A contract implies that you’re in a legally enforceable relationship. Simply walking away could mean legal or financial consequences, like having to pay them a commission even if you switch agents.

There are typically two types of real estate contracts:

• Buyer’s agent agreement – for those buying a home
• Listing agreement – for those selling a home

Both are legally binding contracts that define the agent’s role, the length of the agreement, and what happens if either party wants out.

So, can I fire my realtor while under contract?

Yes, you can fire your real estate agent, but whether you can do so without penalty depends on the terms of your real estate contracts.

If you’re a buyer:

Most buyer’s agent agreements include a clause that outlines how to terminate the contract, including any termination fee. Some contracts allow termination with written notice; others may lock you in for a specific period.

If you’re a seller:

If you’re selling a home and have a listing agreement with a listing agent, it’s typically more formal. You’re bound to that agent for the duration of the listing period, which is usually 3 to 6 months. Firing your agent without following the contract can result in penalties or still having to pay them an agent commission if the house sells during or even shortly after the term ends.

Read more: What does it mean when a house is under contract

What are the steps to fire a realtor the right way? 

Ending your relationship with a real estate agent can be awkward, especially when you’ve signed a legally binding contract. But if the partnership isn’t working and you’ve exhausted all other options, it’s important to go about it the right way to protect your financial and legal interests. 

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown. By following these steps, you’ll avoid unnecessary conflict and prevent costly missteps that could haunt you during or after your real estate transaction.

Review your contract thoroughly

Start by revisiting the agreement you signed — whether it’s a buyer’s agency agreement or a listing agreement. Carefully read through:

• Termination clause: This outlines how and when you can cancel the agreement.
• Notice period: Some contracts require written notice 24–72 hours before termination becomes effective.
• Exclusivity period: This is the duration for which you’re contractually bound to work with the agent.
• Commission protection clause: Also known as a “broker protection clause,” it can require you to pay them a commission even if you close a deal after the contract ends, if they were the original source of the deal.
• Termination fee: Check if you’re liable for any fee or reimbursement for marketing costs, especially when selling a home.

Pro tip: Highlight key sections or take notes so you’re prepared when you discuss termination.

Talk to your agent honestly and professionally

Open and clear communication is often the easiest way to avoid conflict. Set up a phone call or in-person meeting, and explain:

• Why you’re dissatisfied (e.g., poor communication, lack of effort, or mismatched goals).
• What were your expectations that were not met.
• Whether you’d prefer to work with someone else from their brokerage or terminate entirely.

Remember to be respectful. Most agents would rather let you go than work with a disgruntled client who might leave a negative review or cause reputation damage. And, you never know, they may be willing to make adjustments that salvage the relationship.

Request termination in writing

If you decide to move forward with termination, make it official:

• Draft a professional letter or email stating that you are invoking the termination clause in the contract.
• Include your name, the address of the property (if selling), the date of the original agreement, and your reason for terminating.
• Request a written confirmation of the termination from the agent or broker.
• Keep a dated copy for your records.

Some agents may require you to fill out a formal termination of agreement form provided by their brokerage or multiple listing service (MLS).

Ask the broker for help

If the agent is unwilling to release you or becomes confrontational, escalate the issue to their supervising broker. In most states, all real estate agents work under the license of a managing broker, who has the authority to override or terminate agreements.

Explain the situation calmly and provide any documentation that supports your case (texts, emails, missed appointments, etc.).

Sometimes, the broker may offer to assign you a new agent within the same firm, which could save you the trouble of restarting your selling process or home search from scratch.

Consult a real estate attorney if needed

If the agent or brokerage refuses to terminate the contract or threatens legal action or a commission claim, it’s wise to consult a real estate attorney. They can:

• Review the contract for any loopholes or unfair clauses.
• Advise on how to legally terminate the contract.
• Handle negotiations with the real estate broker to secure your release.

Keep in mind that hiring an attorney may cost you upfront, but it could save you from paying thousands in commission down the line.

Notify the MLS (for sellers, if necessary)

If you’re a home seller and the agent listed your home on the MLS, ask for written confirmation that the listing has been withdrawn or canceled. This helps prevent confusion or interference with your new agent’s efforts to relist and sell the property.

Document everything

Throughout this process, maintain a paper trail. Save:

• All written communications (emails, letters, and text messages).
• Signed termination agreements.
• Screenshots of property listings removed from the MLS (if applicable).

This protects you in case the agent claims you still owe a commission or tries to collect it after your home sells.

Can you fire a realtor without penalty?

Only if the contract allows it. Some agents use cancellation clauses that let you walk away anytime; others might require you to pay them a commission if you end the deal prematurely. That’s why it’s important to:

• Ask about cancellation policies before signing a contract.
• Read the fine print for any termination fee clauses.

How can I avoid future issues with realtors?

To avoid having to fire a realtor in the first place, follow these tips:

• Interview several agents before choosing one.
• Check reviews and references.
• Understand the contract and ask questions before signing.
• Communicate your goals and expectations from the beginning.

Can I fire my real estate agent? Final thoughts

Firing your real estate agent is never an easy decision. However, it’s sometimes necessary to protect your interests when selling or buying a home. Just remember: contracts are binding, and making a move without understanding the terms can cost you.

If you’ve signed a contract, be respectful, be legal, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed. After all, your real estate journey should be guided by someone you trust.

Written by Ramona Sinha. May 26, 2025

Ramona is the Senior Content Writer for Kukun. This experienced blogger uses simple and succinct words to decipher the complex phenomenon called life. She has written articles covering a broad range of topics, such as real estate, lending and mortgage, finance, business, taxation, home designs, home improvement projects, decor concepts, and more. An avid traveler, she’s a digital nomad at heart and an animal lover from the depth of her soul.