Red Flags in Real Estate:

When It’s Time to Break Up with Your Realtor 

After more than a decade in Chicago real estate, we’ve learned a tough truth that many avoid:
Sometimes the biggest obstacle to closing a successful deal… is your agent.

Not the mortgage rates.
Not the home inspection.
Not the appraisal.

More often than not, the problem is the representation.

We’ve helped clients win in every type of market, low inventory, rising interest rates, cash-heavy competition, and the consistent difference maker has always been strategy, experience, and proactive guidance.

So if something feels off in your real estate journey, trust your instincts. It’s likely not just in your head.

Why Realtor Experience Matters in a Market Like Chicago

Chicago isn’t a plug and play market. With block by block pricing, complex building regulations, unique taxes, and a constantly shifting rental landscape, it demands more than just a real estate license.

It requires real time, boots on the ground expertise.

The red flags we’re talking about aren’t personal. They’re professional. And when they show up at the wrong time, they can cost you financially and emotionally.

Common Realtor Red Flags to Watch For:

Here are the red flags we see most often:

🔴 Poor communication — You’re chasing your agent for updates instead of being guided clearly.
🔴 Weak offer strategy — In a competitive market, a vague or timid approach can cost you the deal.
🔴 Lack of local knowledge — Chicago real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all. Hyper-local insight matters.
🔴 Disorganization — Missing deadlines here isn’t just sloppy—it can void your contract.
🔴 No proactive guidance — If you're Googling the process, your agent isn’t doing enough.

Each of these on their own might seem manageable. But together, especially in a fast-moving deal? They’re deal-breakers.

4 Signs It Might Be Time to Switch Realtors

1. You’re the one driving the process

If you’re constantly following up, managing timelines, or figuring out what comes next… you’re doing your agent’s job. A great Realtor should lead the process, not lag behind it.

2. You get listings, not strategy

Forwarding properties isn’t enough. Your agent should walk you through pricing insights, offer tactics, and neighborhood nuances. You deserve more than just a Zillow feed in your inbox.

3. They’re unknown, or untrusted, in the RE community

In competitive markets, reputation matters. If other agents hesitate to work with your Realtor or don’t trust their professionalism, your offer could be at a disadvantage— even if it’s the best on paper.

4. You feel anxious, not informed

The market can move fast, but you shouldn’t feel lost. If you’re left in the dark or unsure about next steps, something’s off. Clarity and communication should come standard.

The Bottom Line: You Deserve Better Representation

The Groho Group is built on transparency, real market insight, and long term relationships— not flashy sales tactics or volume based transactions.

We show up.
We strategize.
And we guide our clients every step of the way.

If your current agent isn’t meeting that standard, it’s not only okay to ask questions— it’s smart. Your agent should be your advocate, your strategist, and your steady hand.

What to Do If You’re Ready to Make a Change

• Ask trusted friends and colleagues for referrals.

• Look beyond social media presence. Check track records, reviews, and responsiveness.

• Prioritize agents who communicate clearly and close consistently.
  
  

Because in a market as complex as Chicago, having the right Realtor isn’t just helpful— it’s everything.

And you deserve someone who treats your goals like their own.