💔 When Is It Time to Break Up with Your Real Estate Agent?
Working with a real estate agent should feel like a partnership—one built on trust, transparency, and shared goals. But what happens when the relationship starts to feel one-sided or, worse, like it’s holding you back from reaching your real estate goals?
If you’re wondering whether it’s time to move on from your current agent, here are some clear red flags that signal it might be time to make a change:
🚩 1. Poor Communication or Radio Silence
If you’re constantly chasing your agent for updates, left hanging after texts or emails, or feel confused about what’s happening next… that’s a problem. Communication is everything in real estate. Whether you’re buying or selling, you deserve an agent who keeps you informed every step of the way and is quick to respond to your questions or concerns.
✅ Pro Tip: A great agent should set clear expectations for how and when they’ll communicate—whether it’s daily updates, check-ins after showings, or weekly strategy calls.
🚩 2. Weak or Non-Existent Negotiation Skills
Real estate is all about leverage—and a strong negotiator can literally make or save you thousands of dollars. If your agent folds easily under pressure, lacks a plan during negotiations, or seems unsure how to navigate counter-offers, you may not be getting the best deal.
✅ Pro Tip: Ask your agent how they’ve handled tough negotiations in the past. A confident agent will have clear examples of how they’ve advocated for their clients.
🚩 3. Lack of Local Market Knowledge
Real estate is hyper-local. You want someone who knows the Edmonton market inside and out—from pricing trends and neighborhood vibes to school zones and upcoming developments. If your agent seems out of touch or can’t answer basic questions about the area, it’s a major red flag.
✅ Pro Tip: Your agent should come armed with recent comps, a deep understanding of the area, and insight into what’s selling and why.
🚩 4. They’re Constantly Late or No-Shows
Your time is valuable. Whether it’s a showing, a listing appointment, or a paperwork deadline, reliability matters. An agent who is consistently late, cancels last minute, or doesn’t show up at all reflects poorly—not just on them, but on you as a client.
✅ Pro Tip: Punctuality is a sign of respect. If your agent treats your time casually, they might be treating your entire transaction the same way.
🚩 5. You Just Don’t Feel Prioritized
Sometimes it’s not one big issue—it’s a gut feeling. Maybe you sense your agent is juggling too many clients, or they aren’t as invested in your goals as you are. If you’re constantly feeling like an afterthought, you might be right.
✅ Pro Tip: A great agent makes you feel like their #1 client—whether you’re buying a condo or a million-dollar home.
💬 Thinking It’s Time for a Change?
If any of these red flags sound familiar, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to settle. You deserve an agent who communicates clearly, negotiates fiercely, knows the Edmonton market like a local (because they are), and actually makes you feel heard.
Let’s make real estate feel good again.
📧 dawn@realestatebydawn.ca
📱 780-721-5225
📍 Serving Edmonton & Surrounding Areas