Are You Sure Your Sole Agency Agreement Finishes When You Think?
You might be closer to the end… or further from freedom than you realised.
If you're reading this, there's a good chance you're already listed with an estate agent… and you're starting to wonder if it was the right move (pardon the industry pun on multiple levels here!)
The photos are live, the board’s up, but weeks have passed, and the results just aren’t coming.
Maybe you’re already counting down the days until your sole agency agreement ends so you can switch agents.
But here’s the kicker:
Are you really free to switch when you think you are?
Are You Googling Any of These?
- “Can I switch estate agents before my contract ends?”
- “How long is a sole agency agreement?”
- “Can I leave my estate agent after 16 weeks?”
If so, you’re not the only one, and you’re right to go with your gut and double-check.
Here’s the Fine Print They Don’t Always Mention
Most sole agency agreements are 12 to 20 weeks long. But what many sellers don’t realise is that some agents build in an automatic 4-week notice period after the agreement ends.
So, while your contract says 16 weeks, it could actually be 20. And the worst part? You may have agreed to it without even realising.
We’ve seen this time and time again in Bicester with homeowners feeling stuck, powerless, or even misled.
Why Agents Do It
Some agents rely on inertia.
They assume that by the time you’ve waited 16 weeks, you’ll either give up or renew out of habit.
That’s not how I do things.
I believe in total transparency and in giving sellers freedom to move forward, not feel stuck.
What You Can Do Right Now
Here’s a quick action plan:
- Find your original contract and check the small print for “termination notice period” or “cooling off period.”
- Note the original agreement length and add on any notice period mentioned.
- Contact your agent and ask for written confirmation of the exact end date and the required steps to terminate.
And if you're not getting a clear answer? That’s a red flag.
What I’d Be Doing Differently
I'm Alistair, and as your avocado property partner in Bicester, my approach is simple:
- I’ll always tell you exactly what you're signing.
- I work in shorter, flexible agreements because my goal is to earn your trust, not tie you in.
- And if you're not seeing results, we adapt early (together), not wait it out or stick our heads in the sand!
And why do I approach it this way?
Because when it comes to your biggest asset, you deserve to feel informed, not blindsided.
If you’re feeling stuck or unsure what happens next, I’d be happy to review your agreement with you and talk through your options. No pressure, no sales pitch. Just clarity.
