Short answerIt depends on your agreement. A listing ends when it expires, when both sides sign a release, or under the cancellation terms written into it. Start by talking with your agent, then their managing broker. Read the protection period clause, since a fee may still be owed if a buyer who saw the home during the listing buys later.
Ways a listing ends
- Expiration. The term ends on the stated date.
- Mutual release. You and the brokerage sign a written release, sometimes with conditions.
- Cancellation clause. Some agreements allow cancellation with notice or a fee.
Steps that usually work
- Tell your agent specifically what is not working.
- Ask what they will change, and by when.
- If you still want out, ask the managing broker for a written release.
- Ask a real estate attorney if there is a dispute.
If your listing has already expired
Once a listing has expired or been released in writing, you are free to choose any agent. See why a house is not selling for what to change before you relist.
If you are currently under a listing agreement with another agent, please take these questions to that agent and their managing broker.
Frequently asked questions
Do I owe a fee if I cancel?
It depends on the agreement. Some require a fee, some do not, and a protection period may apply later.
Can I take my house off the market without canceling?
Often the listing can be withdrawn while the agreement stays in force. Ask your agent which applies.
Keep reading
Want to know what a buyer's inspector may find before they do?
Book a free pre listing condition walk. I walk the house with you, point out what inspectors and FHA, VA, and USDA appraisers tend to flag, and give you planning ranges so you can decide what to fix, credit, price in, or disclose.
Book a condition walkOr call or text (812) 525-5489, or email [email protected].
The condition walk is a REALTOR® and contractor evaluation, not a home inspection, and it does not replace one. If you have already signed a listing agreement with another agent, please take these questions to your agent.
Sources
Written by John Long, REALTOR®, 1 Percent Lists Indiana Real Estate. Working contractor who has priced hundreds of home inspection repair requests. Former labor relations negotiator for a major manufacturer and U.S. Coast Guard veteran.
John Long, REALTOR® · 1 Percent Lists Indiana Real Estate · (812) 525-5489 · yourpropertynegotiator.com
This page is general information, not a substitute for a professional home inspection, and not legal, tax, insurance, or lending advice. Ask a real estate attorney about contracts and disclosure, a CPA about taxes, your lender about loan rules, and a licensed inspector or tradesperson about your house. Nothing here guarantees a sale price, net proceeds, repair cost, payment, timeline, appraisal, inspection result, or loan approval. Cost figures are planning estimates, not bids. I own Wardmark Property Operations LLC, a contracting company. You are always free to use any contractor you choose.