Basic Services Issue

[PamT726]

I interviewed 6 brokers before choosing one to list my home. Within a month of the listing, the broker resigned and went to another agency. I was then assigned a new agent who I am extremely unhappy with. My listing agreement is for six months - expires in May, 07. I have a termination clause that will penalize me if I pull out before then, but I just don't feel comfortable with an "assigned" agent vs. someone that I chose. The new agent has not once initiated anything with us: I have always had to make a call to get new flyers, activity reports, etc. In fact, I have never even met him. I just want to sell my home and want to do all that I can to facilitate this. I know that the market is terrible right now, but I have had only one buyer come through since November! I am biased toward brokers: My mom is a broker, my daughter is one, and I myself have taken enough classes to obtain my sales license (all in Illinois).

What approach can I use with this agency. I don't want to pay hefty cancellation fees, but I don't want my home to not get every effort available to be sold. Thanks for any opinions.

[JMF]

I would encourage you to call the broker/license holder for the office that is listing your home. I would speak directly with that person and don't take no for an answer. Tell him/her of the issues, especially that you have never met this agent and the poor service. I would be respectful but insist on them assigning or letting you choose a RESPONSIBLE agent. If not they should let you out of the agreement. If they will not work with you I would make a complaint with the local better business bureau, or the local realtor board that this broker is a member of.

Where I'm located my broker would never stand for this type of conduct.