Recently, I spoke with a seller who was already listed with another agent. They weren’t planning to switch just yet, but they were actively interviewing others—including me—because their home wasn’t moving.

When I asked a simple question—
“What is your agent currently doing to market your home?”

They paused and said:
“To be honest, Sherry… we don’t know.”

That response was a lightbulb moment for them. Not because their agent wasn’t doing anything, but because they didn’t actually know what was being done.

Every December, I hear from sellers who are feeling stuck.

The calls often start the same way:
“We thought we’d be sold by now…”
“We haven’t had much traffic lately.”
“Should we take the home off the market until the new year?”
“We’re thinking of finding a new agent.”

It’s not uncommon for sellers to grow frustrated during the holiday slowdown. This time of year naturally brings a dip in buyer activity as people shift focus to family, travel, and celebrations. But sometimes that frustration isn’t just about the time of year. It’s about uncertainty and lack of communication.

A big problem, but also a solvable one.

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Before You Fire Your Agent, Ask Yourself These Questions:

We know the end of the year brings reflection. You may be wondering if your home will ever sell, or if it’s time to switch representation. But before you make that move, it’s worth asking yourself (and your agent) the following:

1. Is your agent communicating with you regularly?

Selling a home should never feel like a guessing game.

• Are you getting updates on showings and feedback?
• Are they being transparent about what’s happening (or not happening)?
• Are you aligned on next steps?

Sometimes, the issue isn’t lack of effort—it’s lack of clarity. A quick, honest conversation can get things back on track.

2. Do you know how your home is being marketed?

Your agent should be sharing how your listing is being promoted:
📧 Email campaigns
📲 Social media exposure
💻 Online ads and syndication
👥 Networking with other agents

If you’re unsure, ask! Many agents are doing this work behind the scenes—but it only helps if you’re aware of it.

3. Are open houses or showings still happening?

Open houses—especially during the slower season—can bring in serious buyers who are still actively looking. I recently listed a home (yes, in the middle of December), and I had TWELVE prospective buyers stop by and some of them may be putting in an offer soon.

Even in a slower season, consistent exposure matters. Ask your agent:

• Are we hosting open houses or private tours?
• Are there showing restrictions that might be limiting visibility?

If the doors aren’t open, the offers won’t come.

4. Have you discussed pricing recently?

The market is changing quickly. What was a competitive price 30 days ago may need adjusting now. A good agent should be reviewing comps regularly and guiding you with honesty—even when the news is tough to hear.

5. How does your home look—online AND in person?

• Were professional photos used?
• Is the photo order on MLS visually engaging?
• Has professional cleaning or staging been discussed?

Presentation sets the tone for a buyer’s first impression, and it’s 100% within you and your agent’s control.

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The Takeaway

It’s easy to blame the agent when your home isn’t selling, and in some cases, a new strategy or fresh perspective is what’s needed.

But often, the solution lies in re-engaging with your current agent.
Revisiting the plan.
Reopening the lines of communication.

If you feel like you’re in the dark, your agent may not even realize you’re feeling that way.

Before you switch representation, take the time to ask a few honest questions. The answer might not be fire your agent, it simply might be: talk to them.

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Selling in 2026?

If home-selling is on your radar for the new year, make sure you’re starting with a strong foundation. Clear expectations. Strategic pricing. Honest partnership.

And if you ever need a second opinion? I’m happy to offer one.

—Sherry Campbell, Broker/Owner at Energy Realty