What happens if my agent makes a mistake?

What happens if my agent makes a mistake?

Agent Made a Mistake? Here’s the blunt truth you need right now: a mistake doesn’t have to destroy your deal. Handle it fast, follow the steps below, and protect your money and timeline.

Clear answer: What happens if my agent makes a mistake?

If your agent makes a mistake, three things can happen: the error is corrected, the error causes a delay or loss, or you pursue compensation. Most mistakes are fixable. Some create financial exposure. The right response depends on the error, the contract, and how quickly you act.

I’m Tony Sousa, a local real estate expert. I’ve handled transactions where paperwork, disclosure, or communication errors threatened deals. Here’s the exact playbook I use so you don’t lose time or money.

Common agent mistakes (and the impact)

• Paperwork errors: missed signatures, wrong dates — can delay closing or void clauses.
• Disclosure oversights: not sharing material facts — can create legal risk and renegotiation.
• Communication failures: missed offers or misunderstood terms — lost opportunities.
• Pricing or marketing mistakes: wrong comps or poor listing exposure — lower sale price.

Each mistake has a fix. Some require a simple correction. Others need written amendments, release forms, or, rarely, a complaint to the regulatory body.

Step-by-step actions to fix an agent mistake

1. Stop and document. Save emails, texts, contracts, and timelines. Evidence is everything.
2. Notify your agent immediately — in writing. Ask for a remedy and a deadline.
3. Demand corrective documents. Amendments, addenda, or corrected disclosures should be executed fast.
4. Get expert help. If the agent resists, bring in a broker, lawyer, or an expert realtor to advise.
5. Escalate if needed. File a complaint with provincial real estate council or pursue civil remedies for damages.

These steps minimize risk and preserve leverage.

Real example (short)

A buyer’s agent missed an inclusion list on a home sale. Closing delayed two weeks while an addendum was signed; no funds lost, price unchanged. Quick documentation and a clear amendment fixed it. That’s the majority outcome — fix, then move on.

When to consider legal action or complaint

Consider escalation when:

• You suffered measurable financial loss,
• The agent acted in bad faith, or
• Corrective steps fail.

Small errors rarely justify litigation. Most clients get a correction or compensation through broker mediation or insurance (errors & omissions insurance).

Quick checklist for homeowners and buyers

• Save every message and document.
• Ask for written corrections.
• Consult a real estate lawyer for large losses.
• Contact the brokerage manager if the agent won’t cooperate.

FAQs

Q: Can I sue my agent?
A: Yes, but only if you can prove damages and negligence. Most cases settle or get corrected without court.

Q: Will a mistake cancel my sale?
A: Rarely. Corrections and addenda fix most deal-threatening issues. Only severe errors or fraud void contracts.

Q: Who pays for the mistake?
A: Sometimes the brokerage or the agent’s E&O insurance covers it. Other times it’s negotiated between parties.

If you need direct help, I handle these issues every week. I’ll assess risk, draft fixes, and push for resolution so your deal closes on time. Contact Tony Sousa at tony@sousasells.ca or 416-477-2620. Visit https://www.sousasells.ca to get help now.