What should you do if your REALTOR® doesn’t want to market your house?
If your REALTOR doesn’t want to market your house, that’s a pretty big red flag. Marketing is literally one of the core things you hire an agent to do, so when they avoid it or downplay its importance, it usually means something’s off. The good news is you’ve got options, and none of them require you to sit back and hope for the best.
Here’s how most sellers handle it without blowing up the relationship or the deal:
Start with a calm, direct conversation.
Sometimes it’s not laziness. It might be budget limits, scheduling issues, or the agent assuming you didn’t want certain marketing expenses. A simple “Can you walk me through your marketing plan?” can reset expectations fast.
Ask for specifics, not generalities.
A real plan includes photos, staging guidance, online exposure, social media, open houses, email blasts, and property descriptions. If they can’t outline what they’ll do and when, that’s a sign they don’t have a plan at all.
Put everything in writing.
If you want professional photos, a 3D tour, or targeted online marketing, ask for those items to be added to the listing agreement or an addendum. Clarity protects both sides.
Consider whether the agent is simply the wrong fit.
If they resist marketing entirely or keep giving excuses, it’s usually a sign they’re not invested in the sale. Most listing agreements have a cancellation clause or a way to part ways early if things aren’t working.
Remember: you’re the client.
You’re not being “difficult” for expecting your home to be marketed properly. A good agent will welcome the conversation because it shows you care about the outcome.