James, I understand your frustration with unresponsive communication. I hope it's been handled by now but still adding this here in hopes of helping you get to your goal: seamless sell at the highest price in the most efficient manner. - that's exactly the kind of experience that should never happen in real estate.
Steps to Cancel Your Current Agent:
1. Review Your Listing Agreement
Check the termination clause in your signed agreement
Look for the specific cancellation process and any required notice period
Note any potential fees or penalties
2. Document the Communication Issues
Keep records of unreturned calls/voicemails
Save timestamps of your attempts to reach them
This protects you if there are any disputes (a cancellation 'for cause' helps you to unwind the relationship without flack from the agent)
3. Send Written Notice
Email AND certified mail requesting immediate cancellation
Reference the communication failures and your right to terminate
Request confirmation of cancellation in writing "Please confirm receipt" type of thing
4. Contact Their Broker
If the agent remains unresponsive, escalate to their managing broker
The brokerage has a responsibility to ensure client service standards
5. Make sure it's taken down from the MLS
Ensure your property is removed from all listing platforms
Get confirmation that marketing has stopped
Your new agent cant begin his/her worked until this is cleared
What You Should Expect from a Real Estate Agent:
Response within 24 hours maximum (I personally respond within 2-4 hours)
Regular market updates and feedback
Proactive communication about showings and interest
Transparent discussion about pricing and strategy adjustments
Moving Forward:
The good news is you can relist immediately with a responsive agent who values communication. In Chicago's current market, having an agent who's actively working for you makes a significant difference in both timeline and final sale price.
Red flags like this are exactly why I built my practice around transparency and consistent communication - every client deserves an agent who treats their home sale as the priority it is.
Would you like guidance on what questions to ask when interviewing your next agent to ensure you get the service level you deserve?
If you are not able to get in contact with the agent I would find out who the broker is and contact that person. You can tell your story to him/her. Hopefully, they can redirect you to another agent or cancel your contract.
If you are not satisfied with your agent and have been unable to contact them when trying to sell your property, it can be frustrating and unprofessional on their part. Repeatedly leaving voicemails with no response is unacceptable, especially when timely communication is critical in real estate transactions. If this continues, consider reaching out to their brokerage to express your concerns and request assistance. You may also want to review your listing agreement to determine if you have options to terminate the contract and switch to a more responsive agent. Clear and consistent communication is essential, and if your current agent is not providing that, it may be time to explore other options.