Can I change agents after the compulsory period?

Question

My house has been for sale for 2 months. I am tied to my estate agent for 3 months and can't go with another agent in that time. My agent has arrange zero viewings in the last 2 months.

Can I change agent straight after the 3 months is up or do I have to have the house off the market for a while before doing this?

Also, can i take the HIP with me if I change or do I need to pay for another one?

Answer 1

Check your agreement, it will say how long notice you have to give, usually two weeks, give them written notice, so that at the end of the 12 weeks you will be free. Speak to the agent you wish to move to, they will come around and do the necessary pictures etc, ready for the day they can market, they also then know they have your property coming on, and can match any current potential buyers they have on their books.

Answer 2

Yes you can change agents as soon as your contract is up. I am not sure what HIP is, however it has something to do with an inspection then that is still good and should be transferable.  Good Luck.

Answer 3

There is no problem at all in changing agent immediately after the Sole Agency Agreement runs out - but you will probably have to give them 14 days notice in writing, so check your agreement. Don't worry about the board - they will probably have contracted this out to another specialist company who will turn up and take it away.

When you change be aware that the new Agent will try to tie you down to another Sole Agency Agreement, but the choice is yours - you are the customer. If you decide to go with several Agencies the commission rate will be much higher - probably at least 1/2 % more.

The HIP is yours - you paid for it and it is your property.

Answer 4

YES you can change agents at the end of the contract period.  If there have been no showings, has your agent had any open houses?  What has she done to create interest?  Did she do a competitive market analysis and is your home priced right?  Have you reduced the price--after 2 months, you probably should.  Did you do everything suggested to improve curb appear, flowers, landscaping and paint?  Did you discuss presentation of your home with realtor?

If you have done much of the above and are unhappy, go talk with your agent and the broker.  They will generally end the contract early.  

Answer 5

You can change agents after 3 months, Most agents tie you down.  Just make sure the board comes down before you put it on wiv another agent. Saves confusion when clients want to view.

The Hip should be fine as long as you have paid for it.  Just tell the agents you are going to change to and they will advise you.  They will get your last agent to send a copy through.

Hope all goes well.

Answer 6

Yes you can change straight after the 3 months, not sure about the HIP though. Have a word with another agent and see what they say.