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How do I cancel a list in agreement correctly?
I'd like to cancel my listing agreement with my agent. I want to make sure that it's done correctly. How do I cancel a listing agreement?
Asked By Ava Guerra | Benicia, FL | 518 views | Working With An Agent | Created 5 months ago
Answer(7)
Sami Vecchiolla
COMPASS GREATER NY LLC
Do you have a copy of the listing agreement? Typically it details on the agreement how you can cancel the agreement with the listing brokerage you hired.
- 1 month ago
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Bill Bambrick
William Bambrick, P.A.
Ava, your listing agreement will specify the cancellation terms, protection period, and any fees due if cancelled before the termination date. In Florida, you must notify the agent/broker in an email (in writing), and a phone call also goes a long way. Note any protection period after a cancellation that you may be held to; this can me monies paid back to the broker.
You can also request another agent from the broker if this is your concern, and lastly, let it expire on its own, so there are no fees due if outlined in the listing agreement.
They are on your side. Most brokers have seen an excessive number of cancellations this year. Make sure you get in writing the agreed cancellation and any language as to fees or money due.
You can also request another agent from the broker if this is your concern, and lastly, let it expire on its own, so there are no fees due if outlined in the listing agreement.
They are on your side. Most brokers have seen an excessive number of cancellations this year. Make sure you get in writing the agreed cancellation and any language as to fees or money due.
- 2 months ago
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Devin Kroner
EXP, Northern Kentucky
First, I completely understand—this isn’t an easy situation. Selling a home is a major life event, and if the relationship with your current agent isn’t working the way you’d hoped, it’s absolutely fair to explore your options.
Here’s how to approach canceling a listing agreement the right way:
📝 1. Review the Agreement Terms
Start by looking at your signed listing agreement. Most include:
A start and end date
Cancellation or termination clauses
Any potential fees or notice requirements
This helps you understand your rights and obligations before moving forward.
💬 2. Have a Direct (But Respectful) Conversation
Reach out to your agent—or their broker if you’re uncomfortable—kindly but clearly explaining that you’d like to cancel. A simple, respectful message like:
“Thank you for your efforts so far, but I don’t feel this is the best fit for me. I’d like to discuss the process of ending our agreement.”
Most agents would rather release you than work with someone who feels uncomfortable or frustrated.
📧 3. Get It in Writing
Once the cancellation is agreed upon, make sure everything is confirmed in writing. You may be asked to sign a release form, and in some cases, you might need the managing broker’s approval as well.
⚠️ 4. Understand Post-Cancellation Clauses
Some listing agreements include a “protection period,” meaning if someone who saw the home during the listing ends up buying it later, the original agent may still be owed a commission. Knowing this helps avoid any surprises.
✅ 5. Move Forward Confidently
If you're canceling because you're unsure about the strategy, communication, or results, know that the right agent will take time to listen, align with your goals, and walk beside you through the entire process—not just list your home.
Here’s how to approach canceling a listing agreement the right way:
📝 1. Review the Agreement Terms
Start by looking at your signed listing agreement. Most include:
A start and end date
Cancellation or termination clauses
Any potential fees or notice requirements
This helps you understand your rights and obligations before moving forward.
💬 2. Have a Direct (But Respectful) Conversation
Reach out to your agent—or their broker if you’re uncomfortable—kindly but clearly explaining that you’d like to cancel. A simple, respectful message like:
“Thank you for your efforts so far, but I don’t feel this is the best fit for me. I’d like to discuss the process of ending our agreement.”
Most agents would rather release you than work with someone who feels uncomfortable or frustrated.
📧 3. Get It in Writing
Once the cancellation is agreed upon, make sure everything is confirmed in writing. You may be asked to sign a release form, and in some cases, you might need the managing broker’s approval as well.
⚠️ 4. Understand Post-Cancellation Clauses
Some listing agreements include a “protection period,” meaning if someone who saw the home during the listing ends up buying it later, the original agent may still be owed a commission. Knowing this helps avoid any surprises.
✅ 5. Move Forward Confidently
If you're canceling because you're unsure about the strategy, communication, or results, know that the right agent will take time to listen, align with your goals, and walk beside you through the entire process—not just list your home.
- 3 months ago
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Tyler Tapley
Crye-Leike
Hi...In general I would recommend you talk with your agent and get their thoughts. Proper communication is always a good thing.
- 2 months ago
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Stacy Huntsman
United Real Estate
Review your listing contract's termination clause for notice and/or fees. Send written email referring to said clause and your intention to cancel. Request a signed mutual release from the agent/brokerage. Confirm your home is pulled off the MLS and lastly keep record of all communications.
- 3 months ago
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Shellee Scherr
Century 21 Signature Realty
Hi. You will need to request it from the agent/brokerage and it will have to be in writing. The Colorado Listing Agreement clearly states the reasons you can get out of the Agreement. Paragraph 19 states " If Broker is in Default. In the event the Broker fails to substantially perform under this Seller Listing Contract, Seller has the right to cancel this Seller Listing Contract, including all rights of Brokerage Firm to any compensation. Any rights of Seller to damages, if any, that accrued prior to cancellation will survive such cancellation" Good Luck
- 4 months ago
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