Answers by Nancy Moore

You can absolutely move on, but the first question is: did you sign a buyer representation agreement with them? If you did not sign anything, this is fairly simple. I would just send a clear, professional note that says you have decided to work with someone else and ask them to cancel any ongoing showings or communication on your behalf. If you did sign a buyer agreement, then you need to read the terms right away and look for: • the length of the agreement • whether it is exclusive • how termination is handled • whether there is any protection period tied to homes they already showed you In most cases, I would address it directly and quickly. Something along the lines of: “I wanted to let you know we’ve decided not to move forward. We chose your team expecting to work with the agent we originally met, and we were uncomfortable being handed off without a clear conversation. Given our timeline, we need to move in a different direction. Please confirm in writing that our agreement is canceled effective immediately.” That keeps it calm, direct, and documented. A few important things: • Do this in writing by email or text so there is a record. • Do not keep touring homes with them while trying to exit. • If they resist and you signed with a brokerage, ask to speak directly with the broker/manager and request an immediate release. • Before seeing any homes with a new agent, make sure the first agreement is fully resolved. And candidly, your frustration makes sense. If you chose one agent and were handed to someone inexperienced without a real discussion, that would feel off to most buyers. I hope this helps you, Nancy Moore Gibson Sotheby's Intl Realty Needham, MA Vice President, CBR, CRP, GRI, SRES (781) 424- 3527

This is a smart way to approach it. Most buyers think the key is just finding the right house. In reality, a big part of avoiding mistakes is asking the right questions of the Realtor you hire first, because the quality of your guidance will shape every decision after that. I would focus less on “What questions should we ask about the house?” and more on: What questions should we ask the agent so we know they will help us evaluate homes well? Here are some strong ones: How do you help buyers look beyond cosmetic details and spot things that could affect resale, layout, or future value? When we walk through a home, what kinds of issues are you paying attention to that most buyers miss? How do you advise clients on location factors like street noise, traffic patterns, train proximity, schools, or neighborhood fit? How do you help buyers decide what is a real red flag versus what is just normal homeownership? If we like a house, how do you help us evaluate pricing, competition, and whether it is actually a smart buy? How do you handle inspections, negotiations, and due diligence so buyers do not feel rushed into a mistake? Will we be working directly with you, or with other members of your team? That last one matters more than people realize. You can also ask house-specific questions when touring, such as: How long has this property been on the market, and why do you think that is? What should we be noticing here that may not be obvious at first glance? How do you think this home will compare when it is time to resell? Are there any concerns with layout, location, upkeep, or future costs that you would want your own family to think about? A good buyer’s agent should not just unlock doors. They should help you evaluate the home, the location, the terms, and the long-term fit with clear, honest guidance. The biggest mistake buyers make early on is choosing an agent based on personality alone instead of asking how that person actually advises, protects, and negotiates. Nancy Moore Vice President, CBR, CRP, GRI, SRES Gibson Sotheby's Intl Realty Needham, MA (781) 424-3527

When selling a home in Needham, MA, or the Boston suburbs, sellers often ask about major expenses. While some costs—like real estate agent commissions, closing fees, and agreed-upon repairs—are typically the seller’s responsibility, unexpected issues discovered after closing are usually not the seller’s liability. For example, if a buyer discovers that the air and heating system is failing after taking possession of a $500,000 home, the seller generally is not required to replace it unless it was misrepresented or concealed. Working with a top Needham Realtor like Nancy Moore ensures both buyers and sellers understand their responsibilities, navigate the Metrowest Boston market with confidence, and minimize surprises during the transaction.

Please know that browsing open houses is not a “no-no” at all—in fact, it’s one of the reasons they exist. Many people stop by open houses simply to get design inspiration, stay current on what’s selling in their neighborhood, or explore possibilities for the future. That kind of interest helps spread word of mouth about the home, which is valuable in itself. As agents, our role is to welcome guests, answer questions, and represent the property with professionalism—whether someone is ready to buy today or just gathering ideas. While some agents may feel disappointed if visitors aren’t immediate buyers, the truth is that every person who walks through an open house is contributing to exposure and community awareness. So please don’t feel bad about attending open houses. If you’re respectful of the space—as you mentioned you are—you are more than welcome. Who knows? Sometimes browsing today can spark a move tomorrow, and either way, you’re supporting the process. ~ Nancy Moore Needham Realtor

Deciding to sell your home is a big step, and choosing the best strategy is key to maximizing your sale. One option you might consider is private listing—is this the right move for you? With my extensive experience in Needham and the surrounding towns, I've seen that private listings can sometimes limit exposure, potentially affecting your sale price. They can also help sell a home with privacy and confidentiality. Understanding the right approach tailored for your home and the local market is crucial, especially in competitive areas like the Boston suburbs. As a top realtor in Needham, MA, I'm dedicated to offering insights for my clients that are not only informed by market trends but also by my hands-on experience.