Can I Switch Realtors if I’m Not Happy? Here’s What You Need to Know

Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial and emotional decisions you’ll ever make. Choosing the right Realtor is a huge part of that journey. But what happens if you feel like you made the wrong choice? Many clients eventually wonder: Can I switch Realtors if I’m not happy?

The good news is that you can. The process may look a little different depending on whether you’re buying or selling, but you are never stuck without options.

Why People Decide to Switch Realtors

Not every Realtor–client relationship is a perfect match, and sometimes it becomes clear that you need to switch Realtors for a better experience. Here are the most common reasons:

• Communication issues: Calls, texts, or emails go unanswered for days at a time.
• Lack of market expertise: Your agent doesn’t seem familiar with your area, whether it’s Benton County farmland or a Grand Lake vacation home.
• Weak marketing: Your home isn’t showing up online, professional photos aren’t being used, or there’s no social media presence.
• Misaligned personalities: Buying and selling is emotional—if you don’t connect, it adds unnecessary stress.
• No clear strategy: Instead of being guided, you feel like you’re navigating everything on your own.

Switching Realtors can feel intimidating, but in reality, it often relieves stress and gives your real estate journey new energy.

Real-Life Example: A Buyer in Siloam Springs

A first-time buyer in Siloam Springs had been working with an agent for several months but felt like they were doing all the searching on their own. Their agent rarely followed up, and when they finally found a house they liked, their offer wasn’t presented in a timely manner. Frustrated, they asked, “Can I switch Realtors in the middle of my home search?”

The answer was yes. Since they hadn’t signed a Buyer-Broker Agreement, they were free to work with someone else. Within a week of switching Realtors, they were shown more options that actually matched their needs, and they successfully went under contract.

Can Buyers Switch Realtors?

Yes. Unless you’ve signed a Buyer-Broker Agreement, you’re usually free to switch Realtors at any time. If you did sign one, it may include a timeframe and conditions for cancellation, so it’s worth reading closely before moving on.

Many buyers don’t realize that a Realtor’s role isn’t just to unlock doors—it’s to provide market insights, negotiate on your behalf, and guide you through inspections, financing, and closing. If you aren’t receiving that level of service, switching Realtors is not only allowed, it’s often the best decision.

For additional resources, check out the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s Owning a Home Guide.

Can Sellers Switch Realtors?

For sellers, the process of switching Realtors is more contract-bound. When you list a home, you usually sign a Listing Agreement with a Realtor and their brokerage. That contract gives them exclusive rights to market your property for a set period.

If you’re unhappy with your current listing agent, your options may include:

1. Checking the contract for cancellation or early termination clauses. (See Arkansas Real Estate Commission or Oklahoma Real Estate Commission for details on standard contracts.)
2. Discussing concerns with the broker to request a reassignment.
3. Waiting until the listing expires if termination isn’t available.

For more information, NAR also provides helpful guidance on working with real estate agents.

Real-Life Example: A Seller in Grove, OK

One seller in Grove had listed their lakefront property for months with little activity. They noticed the listing photos were dark, the description was generic, and there was no online advertising beyond the MLS. After multiple price drops and little movement, they began to ask, “Can I switch Realtors even if my home is still under contract with one?”

The answer depended on their Listing Agreement. In their case, they approached the broker, who agreed to terminate the contract early. With new representation, fresh professional photography, and drone shots showcasing the property’s views, showings increased dramatically. The home sold within six weeks at a competitive price.

How to Switch Realtors the Right Way

If you’ve decided it’s time, here’s how to switch Realtors smoothly and professionally:

1. Review your contract. See what you signed and what the terms are.
2. Voice your concerns. Sometimes a direct conversation resolves the issue.
3. Talk to the broker. They can approve a release or assign a new agent within the same office.
4. Keep it respectful. Real estate is a small world—especially in communities like Siloam Springs, Bentonville, Grove, and Decatur.
5. Do your homework when choosing your next Realtor. Look for strong communication, proven marketing, and local expertise.

How to Choose the Right Realtor the Next Time

If you’ve had to switch Realtors once, the next step is finding someone who will truly be the right fit going forward. Consider these factors:

• Local knowledge: Your Realtor should be deeply familiar with Northwest Arkansas and Northeast Oklahoma—not just broad market trends.
• Marketing power: From professional photography to video tours and IDX listing exposure, marketing should be strategic and proactive.
• Availability and responsiveness: You should never feel like you’re chasing down updates.
• Client-focused service: The best Realtors treat you as more than just a transaction.

A team structure, like the one at The Smiley Team at EXIT Realty, can be especially valuable. Instead of depending on one person, you benefit from multiple agents working together, ensuring you always have someone available to support you.

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can Switch Realtors

The bottom line: if you’re unhappy, you can absolutely switch Realtors. Your home—whether you’re buying or selling—is too important to settle for less than excellent representation. While contracts and agreements may determine the exact process, your rights as a client always include the ability to seek better service.

If you’re ready for a fresh start in Northwest Arkansas or Northeast Oklahoma, The Smiley Team at EXIT Realty Harper Carlton Group is here to help. Our mission is simple: listen, communicate, and guide you every step of the way—before, during, and after the transaction.

Frequently Asked Questions About Switching Realtors

1. Can I switch Realtors after signing a contract?
Yes, but it depends on the type of contract. Buyers can often cancel a Buyer-Broker Agreement with notice, while sellers may need to request a release from a Listing Agreement through the Arkansas Real Estate Commission or Oklahoma Real Estate Commission.

2. Is it rude to switch Realtors?
No. Real estate is a professional service industry. You have the right to expect good communication and support. If those aren’t being met, switching Realtors is your right as a client.

3. Can I switch Realtors during escrow?
Yes, though it can be more complicated. If you’re under contract on a property, you may need to coordinate carefully with your new Realtor and the title company to avoid delays.

4. Will I owe money if I switch Realtors?
Sometimes. Some agreements may include fees for early termination, especially in Listing Agreements. Always review your contract before making the switch.

5. How do I politely tell a Realtor I’m switching?
Keep it simple and professional. Thank them for their time, explain that you’re going in a different direction, and request termination of your agreement if needed.

6. How do I make sure I don’t have to switch Realtors again?
Choose someone with proven local experience, a clear communication style, and a marketing plan that matches your goals. Teams like The Smiley Team give you the benefit of multiple agents and resources so you’re supported from start to finish.

Why You Don’t Have to Switch Realtors With The Smiley Team

With The Smiley Team at EXIT Realty Harper Carlton Group, you don’t have to worry about needing to switch Realtors. Our team brings together experience, local expertise, and top-tier marketing to give you a seamless buying or selling journey. From professional photography and drone shots to customized home searches and consistent communication, we’re committed to guiding you from start to finish—so you always feel confident, supported, and one step closer to your real estate goals.