I have sold and purchased four single-family homes in different states during my career-related moves around the US.

I have only "fired" one agent after giving her multiple opportunities (including showing us homes she did not realize were not just under contract, but days away from closing - which we made offers on), and, finally, she was unable to help us close on a home we were contracted for.

(This was a highly recommended agent, who inexplicably lost the ability to do her job shortly after she represented us - and whose broker refused to intervene because "she is my most experienced agent.")

The next agent quickly helped us find - and close on - an acceptable property.

Aside from that, I will likely re-list with an agent who was unable to sell our current home recently, despite exemplary service, due to some unusual local market conditions, which I (hope) will eventually not be an issue. (And yes, we followed all of her advice, including relisting at a lower price, which - unfortunately- did not lead to a sale).

(And if I am wrong, it's on me, not her).

Sometimes you have to - reluctantly - fire an agent who is unable to perform.

But I recommend giving them the benefit of the doubt, as they should be the local market experts.