What's your best move when a broker is working against you?

1 Identify the problem

The first step is to figure out what exactly is wrong with your broker's behavior. Are they ignoring your calls, pushing you to accept a bad offer, hiding information, or lying to you or the other party? You need to gather evidence and documentation of their actions, such as emails, texts, contracts, or receipts. You also need to review the terms and conditions of your agreement with them, and check if they have violated any of their duties or obligations.

2 Communicate your concerns

The next step is to confront your broker and express your dissatisfaction. You should do this in a calm and professional manner, and avoid making accusations or threats. You should explain what you expect from them, and ask them to explain their reasoning or justify their actions. You should also give them a chance to correct their mistakes or improve their performance. You may want to involve a third party, such as a supervisor, a lawyer, or a mediator, to help you resolve the issue.

3 Consider your options

If your communication with your broker does not lead to a satisfactory outcome, you may have to consider other options. Depending on the severity of the problem and the stage of the deal, you may be able to fire your broker, switch to another one, or cancel the transaction. However, you should be aware of the potential consequences and costs of these actions, such as fees, penalties, or lawsuits. You should consult a legal expert before making any final decisions.

4 Protect your interests

Whatever option you choose, you should always protect your interests and rights. You should keep all the records and evidence of your broker's misconduct, and report them to the relevant authorities or organizations, such as the state licensing board, the Better Business Bureau, or the National Association of Realtors. You should also seek compensation or damages for any losses or harm you suffered because of your broker's actions. You may need to file a claim or a lawsuit against them, or join a class action if there are other victims.

5 Learn from the experience

The last step is to learn from the experience and avoid repeating the same mistake in the future. You should do your research and due diligence before hiring a broker, and look for reputable, experienced, and trustworthy professionals. You should also read and understand the contract and the commission structure, and negotiate the terms that suit your needs. You should also communicate regularly and clearly with your broker, and monitor their performance and feedback.

6 Seek professional advice

This article is not intended to provide legal or financial advice, but only general information and tips on how to deal with a broker who is working against you. Every situation is different, and you should always consult a qualified professional before taking any action that may affect your rights or interests. A lawyer, an accountant, or a financial planner can help you assess your options and risks, and guide you through the process.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?