Switching real estate agents mid-campaign is more common than most sellers realise. If your agent is underperforming, communicating poorly or delivering results below expectations, you have options. Here is a step-by-step guide to switching agents — and what to consider before you do.

Step 1 — Review Your Agency Agreement

Before doing anything, locate and read your agency agreement. This is the contract you signed with your current agent. Look for:

• The agreement term — how long you are locked in
• The termination clause — how much notice you need to give
• The conjunctional or continuing agency clause — whether the original agent is still entitled to commission if the property sells after termination
• Any marketing cost recovery clause — whether you owe the agent for advertising already spent

Step 2 — Give Written Notice of Termination

Most agency agreements require 30 days written notice to terminate. Send a formal letter or email stating your intention to terminate the agency agreement at the end of the notice period. Keep a copy.

Step 3 — Check for a Continuing Agency Clause

Many agency agreements contain a continuing agency clause that entitles the agent to commission even after termination if the property is sold to a buyer the agent introduced. Read this carefully — if the agent introduced your eventual buyer, they may still be entitled to commission regardless of who you appointed next.

Step 4 — Settle Any Outstanding Marketing Costs

If your agent has spent money on advertising (photography, copywriting, online listings), you may owe these costs regardless of whether the property sold. Review the agreement for what was authorised and what is owed.

Step 5 — Appoint Your New Agent or Advisory Service

Once the termination period has passed, you are free to appoint a new agent — or consider an alternative. If you are frustrated with full-commission agents, a Collings Property Advisor can manage the sale of your property for a fixed fee of $4,500 + GST, including pricing strategy, buyer qualification, negotiation and offer management.

Common Reasons Sellers Switch Agents

• Poor communication — not being updated on buyer feedback or offer activity
• Overquoting — the agent quoted a high price to win the listing but is now recommending price reductions
• Low buyer traffic — insufficient marketing or open home activity
• Loss of confidence — the agent no longer inspires confidence in their ability to achieve the right outcome

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I switch real estate agents before my agreement expires?

Yes, but you will typically need to give 30 days written notice and may owe marketing costs already spent. Review your agreement carefully before giving notice.

Can I sell my property privately after terminating my agent?

Yes, subject to the continuing agency clause in your agreement. A Collings Property Advisor can help you manage a private or off-market sale once your agency agreement has been terminated.

Is there an alternative to switching agents?

Yes. If you are dissatisfied with your current agent, consider engaging a Collings Property Advisor to manage negotiations and strategy alongside your existing campaign — or terminate and run a private sale with our fixed-fee support.

Consider a Collings Property Advisor Before You Switch

Before signing with another agent, consider whether you actually need full representation — or whether a Collings Property Advisor can deliver the outcome you want for a flat $4,500 + GST fee. Contact us at collings.com.au.