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.
Both principals to the listing agreement have the power to revoke the contract at any time. They do not, however, always have the right. That is, client or broker may cancel a listing but remain liable for damages to the other party.
Final answer: In terms of a real estate transaction, the ability to cancel a listing during the term of the listing agreement primarily lies with the seller and the broker.
The seller can allow a listing to be canceled during the term of the agreement. The seller, being the owner of the property, can decide to withdraw his or her property from the market.
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.
Reasons for termination might include an agent's unsatisfactory performance, the seller changing their mind about selling the property or a mutual decision to otherwise end the contract.