HomeAdviceTips & Advicehow do i return a key and sign for an expired contract?

how do i return a key and sign for an expired contract?

My contract expires thursday .i would like to return keys sign ,I am being referred to another realtor who is a family friend and just passed realty test.

Asked by Renee Caraballo| 06-22-2025| 483 views|Tips & Advice|Updated 9 months ago

Answers (7)

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Barrett Henry

RE/MAX Collective · Tampa, FL

(6 reviews)
Once your listing agreement expires, you're no longer under contract with that agent or brokerage. Return the keys to the listing agent or their office, and ask them to provide a written confirmation that the agreement has expired and no mutual obligations remain. An email confirmation is fine. If you had a lockbox on the property, make sure it's removed. If the agent has any other access devices, marketing materials, or signage, coordinate to have those returned or removed as well. You don't need to sign anything to end an expired contract. It ended on its own by reaching the expiration date. If the agent asks you to sign a cancellation form, that's just their brokerage's internal paperwork to close the file. Read it before you sign to make sure there's nothing unexpected in it, like an extended protection period beyond what was in the original agreement. Once everything is returned and confirmed, you're free to list with your new agent whenever you're ready.
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03-27-2026··
Amanda Courtney

REP Realty Group · Fort Myers, FL

(13 reviews)
Once a contract expires, your agent can help coordinate key return and any required release paperwork. Both parties usually sign a cancellation or release form confirming no further obligations.
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10-13-2025··
Sami VecchiollaRising Star25 Answers
Sami Vecchiolla

COMPASS GREATER NY LLC · Chappaqua, NY

(17 reviews)
Reach out directly to the agent that you were working with and let them know you don't wish to continue working with them.
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09-28-2025··
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Michelle CecchiniRising Star19 Answers
Michelle Cecchini

Shell Realty LLC · Ormond Beach, FL

(20 reviews)
Contact the brokerage company you had a listing with to pick up the sign and key.
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03-16-2026··
Bill BambrickRising Star15 Answers
Bill Bambrick

William Bambrick, P.A. · North Port, FL

(7 reviews)
Did you ask to re-list? I would be happy to be the next agent if you wish to step away. I sell homes in Port Charlotte. Call your listing contact (family member) and ask how they wish to get the key back.
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07-06-2025··
Anna WisemanRising Star14 Answers
Anna Wiseman

RE/MAX Lifestyle · Denver, NC

(13 reviews)
Contact your agent. I'm sure they will be happy to pick those items up for you. Also, you may want to research agents who sell a good amount in your area for advice as well
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08-07-2025··
Ashley WattersNovice3 Answers
Ashley Watters

EXP Realty · Little Rock, AR

(30 reviews)
If your contract expires on Thursday, you are generally free to work with another realtor after that date, as you are no longer under obligation to your current agent once the listing agreement expires. It’s courteous and professional to let your current agent know that you will not be renewing the agreement and that you’d like to return any items, like keys and signage. Here’s what you can do: Notify Your Current Agent: Let them know in writing that you will not be renewing the listing agreement after it expires on Thursday. You can also arrange a time to return the keys and sign. Check for Post-Listing Clauses: Some contracts have a protection period (often 30-90 days) that protects the agent’s right to a commission if they procured a buyer before the contract expired. Make sure you understand this section. Be Upfront with Your New Realtor: Since your new agent is a family friend who just got licensed, be mindful they may be learning the process. You may want to provide them with some support or consider whether working with a more experienced mentor alongside them could be beneficial.
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06-28-2025··
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