Is it possible to exit the contract early? As standard, estate agents must give you 14 days from the date you entered the contract in which to change your mind, so if you're having doubts in the first two weeks, ending the contract should be quite straightforward.
Most general agency agreements will specify the notice period for cancelling the agreement. The notice period is designed to give the agency the chance to conclude any introductions. There is nothing in the Act or the Code that specifies how long the notice period for the cancellation of a general agency should be.
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.
After you sign the offer, if the agent isn't fulfilling their duties, you may need to write a termination letter to officially end the relationship after you've tried to remedy the situation. Hopefully, you read the agreement carefully before you signed it and know the terms of termination.
Only the parties to a contract can amend it and then, only if they both agree to do so. Standard form listing and buyer agency contracts doesn't contain any provision for an early cancellation. As noted, to cancel or otherwise amend a listing or buyer agency contract the seller/buyer and brokerage must both agree.
Because agency relationships are governed by contract law, if a principal or agent terminates the contract violating the agency agreement, either party may be liable for damages.
Most estate agents impose a minimum contract period — usually lasting between 8 to 16 weeks, during which you may not be able to switch estate agents without incurring penalties. Be sure to check for specific terms related to termination and the required notice period, which is commonly 14 to 28 days.
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.
If no fixed term or mechanism for termination was agreed, then the agreement can usually be terminated by giving reasonable notice. Ideally a reasonable notice period should be agreed before notice is given. If this is not possible, legal advice should be sought as to a reasonable notice period.
An agency is terminated by the principal revoking his authority, or by the agent renouncing the business of the agency; or by the business of the agency being completed; or by either the principal or agent dying or becoming of unsound mind; or by the principal being adjudicated an insolvent under the provisions of any ...