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.
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.
Taking Action Ask for a release: The time to ask about canceling a listing is when you sign the listing contract. Request a release in writing: Tell your agent immediately if you want to cancel. Ask to be assigned another agent: Realize that your listing is between the brokerage and you, not you and your agent.
You should use the Listing Cancellation Form when you wish to terminate an existing listing agreement with your real estate agent.