How to Cancel a Selling Agent Relationship

Even if you are unhappy with your real estate agent, you might be stuck with him.

A licensed real estate agent works under the supervision of a licensed real estate broker. When you sign a listing agreement with a real estate agent to list your property for sale, the agreement is actually with the agent's broker. In some situations, your agent is also the broker. The listing agreement is an employment contract between you and the broker. The contract spells out the terms of your agreement, such as how you intend to pay the broker and the length of the contract. If you are unhappy with the agent or broker, you may or may not be able to cancel the agreement.

Instructions

1. Read the employment or listing agreement you signed with the real estate agent. This is a binding contract, and you need a clear understanding of what it contains and your obligations to the agent and broker.

2. Identify the reason you want to be released from the contract. If you simply no longer want to sell your property and do not intent to relist it or put it back on the market, the agent will typically pull the property from the market. Carefully read the release papers, as they might obligate you to the broker in the future if should you eventually put the property back on the market.

3. Contact the real estate agent, and state your reason for wishing to cancel the listing. If the agent agrees, request a written release from the broker.

4. Contact the agent's broker if the agent refuses to release you from the contract. Ask for a full release from the listing agreement. If it is a conflict between you and the agent, the broker might opt to keep your listing but have you work with another agent.

5. Meet with your attorney to review the employment contract, should the broker refuse to release you. Depending on the terms, though, the attorney may or may not be able to help you.

References

• "Modern Real Estate Practice"; Fillmore Galaty, et al.; 2006