If you've officially decided to move forward with the cancellation, it's time to put it in writing and send it to the other party. When writing this letter, make sure to include the date the contract was drafted, the address of the home, the date of cancellation, and your reasons.
You should use the Listing Cancellation Form when you wish to terminate an existing listing agreement with your real estate agent.
If I was wanting to cancel, the first thing I would do is contact the listing agent and explain why you want to cancel. Most of the time the listing agent will release you from the agreement. If they are resistant to releasing you from the agreement contact their Broker/manager and explain.
You can indeed cancel a real estate listing agreement in California. Sellers might be asking themselves, “under what circumstances?” And the answer to that is: almost any. Maybe you changed your mind and you decided you don't want to sell your house after all.
California case law suggests that where the listing agreement has a fixed term, it may not be unilaterally terminated by the agent (though the client may unilaterally terminate). The agent may "renounce" the agency, but if the client is damaged by the renunciation, the client may sue for damages.
Typically, a termination by a seller is justified if the realtor was not putting a lot of effort in marketing or advertising the house, they repeatedly acted in an unprofessional manner, or they have a pattern of bad communication with the seller.
All that is required in California is to notify the listing agent in writing.
Written Notice: Always provide cancellation in writing. This document should state your intention to cancel the contract, the reason for cancellation, and be signed and dated. This creates a formal record of your intent and the date it was communicated, an essential step in how to cancel a real estate contract.
The 14 day cooling off period During the first 14 days after you have entered the contract you have the right to leave the contract without incurring a penalty.
The easiest way out is to sit down with the real estate brokerage the realtor works for and discuss breaking the agreement. Many reputable brokerages who wish to keep a favorable relationship with your business will agree to peaceful contract termination.