All that is required in California is to notify the listing agent in writing.
A buyer who receives a home inspection report and is dissatisfied and wants to terminate the agreement, merely does so in writing. The document that is used to exercise a right of termination granted by the agreement is the Notice of Termination of Agreement of Sale (TER).
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.
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.
Listing agreements are typically automatically terminated under the following conditions: Expiration of the Listing Agreement: If the time period specified in the agreement comes to an end without a sale, the agreement automatically expires.
Begin by addressing the letter to the real estate agent by name, and clearly state that you are terminating the contract. Be sure to include the date of termination and any relevant details about the reasons for ending the agreement.
Final answer: A listing agreement is most likely to terminate due to expiration in a situation where the contract specifies a fixed term without provisions for early cancellation or premature termination by either party.