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.
The simplest way to terminate a listing agreement is through mutual consent. If both you and your agent agree to part ways, you can cancel the agreement without penalties. Make sure to document this agreement in writing, as it will serve as evidence in case of any disputes later on.
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.
All that is required in California is to notify the listing agent in writing.
Typically, the answer is no. You have both signed a contract and must fulfill its terms. The only way out of the contract would be if the other party agreed to release you from it, if the contract allowed you to rescind it somehow, or if you sued to allow you to back out of the contract.
The most amicable way to exit a contract is to have a frank and honest conversation with the parties involved. This is an opportunity to share why one cannot proceed with the contract in the first place. As long as both parties can come to a suitable agreement, then the agreement can be changed or terminated.
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.
Simply send them a letter or email stating that you are no longer working with them effective immediately. You are not obligated to work with any realtor you don't like. Cut contact after sending the message and contact the new realtor.
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.