If you're set on canceling, send a formal request in writing, either via email or certified letter. Be sure to include your property address, the date, and a clear statement that you're terminating the agreement. If you want to work with a different agent in the future, be clear about the termination timeframe.
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.
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.
You should use the Listing Cancellation Form when you wish to terminate an existing listing agreement with your real estate agent.
Listing agreements are usually cancelled only with the mutual consent of the involved parties. Depending on the terms of the agreement, a Broker may be not required to cancel the listing at the owner's request. The listing agreement may obligate the consumer monetarily after cancellation.
Termination clauses can always be customized but standard ones are included in almost every agreement.
Why can you terminate a listing agreement? Poor communication: You may cancel a listing agreement due to an agent's poor performance. Bad marketing: Real estate is competitive, even in a seller's market. Unethical behavior: Agents have a fiduciary duty to serve a home seller honestly and ethically.
Listing agreements are usually cancelled only with the mutual consent of the involved parties.
Most contracts have a clause telling you what to do if one of the parties wishes to terminate it. Depending on the type of contract you might also have an “express right to terminate” clause or a cooling off period so be sure to read the small print for anything that could help you here.
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.