Termination clauses can always be customized but standard ones are included in almost every agreement.
A listing agreement should include a termination clause to outline conditions under which the property owner or real estate agent can end the contract early.
First off, without a defined expiration date, you didn't have a ratified listing agreement. Second, in California, as of 2024, you cannot have a listing agreement term for longer than 24 months, and if you essentially had an indefinite listing agreement, this would be unlawful.
How to Amend a Listing Agreement (3 steps) Discuss the Amendment. The broker and owner should meet and discuss the changes to the listing agreement. Write the Amendment. Once a verbal agreement is made, the amendment should be written. Sign and Attach to Listing Agreement.
Whether you change your mind about selling, have ethical or performance concerns about the agent, or you just don't find a buyer, you can get out of a listing agreement. But before you sign one, you should understand your options for terminating a listing agreement so you don't feel stuck in a bad situation.
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.
The Court held that under the law of agency, the seller's death terminated the relationship and the listing contract between the seller and the 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.