Finding the right real estate agent is important to the success of your home purchase or sale. Some real estate agents are top-notch and go above and beyond for their clients. Others are perfectly adequate and get the job done with few hassles.

However, there are real estate agents who don’t transact business like licensed professionals are ethically bound to do. Problems can develop over unaddressed conflicts of interest, lack of full disclosure or failure to maintain confidentiality.

It’s also wise to keep things in perspective. Are you dissatisfied because of problems with your agent’s timely communication of information? Sometimes, a frank discussion can clear the air and get your client-agent relationship back on track.

However, there may be times when clients are no longer willing to work with their agents due to irreparable breaches. Here, too, communication is key. You may be able to be released from the contract simply by asking to be and explaining why.

Even when an agent is reluctant to release a client, the agent’s broker may be willing to do so to maintain the real estate agency’s reputation. You also have the option of filing a complaint with the Florida real estate licensing board, especially if there was evidence of fraud or questionable ethics.

If you suffered damages and financial losses as a result of a real estate agent’s incompetence, negligence or ethical breach, it may be possible to ensure that justice is done. A Melbourne attorney with experience handling real estate matters can review your case and the supporting evidence and assess its viability.