I want to cancel my agreement?

The short answer: it depends on what your listing agreement says. A listing agreement is a legal contract. Until it’s formally canceled in writing and signed by both parties, it’s still in effect — even if someone says “don’t worry, I’ll rip it up.” If you’re considering withdrawing, I’d suggest: 1️⃣ Ask for a written cancellation agreement. There should be a signed document confirming you’re released from the contract. 2️⃣ Review the termination clause. Most listing agreements outline how cancellation works and whether any fees apply. 3️⃣ Do not list with someone else until you’re formally released. Listing with a new agent while still under contract can create commission disputes — and that’s the last thing you want. 4️⃣ If you’re unsure, consult a real estate attorney for clarity. A quick review can prevent bigger problems later. I can’t give legal advice, but in general, a listing agreement needs to be canceled in writing and signed by both parties. I’d make sure you have formal documentation releasing you before moving forward with anyone else.

Generally, it depends on what your listing agreement says. There is an line where the broker can charge you a fee for canceling, so check there. But if your agent said he was going to rip it up, I would ask for a letter of cancellation from the broker, then you can rest assured it's been canceled.

Verbal agreements don't unwind the contract. Get the release in writing. The agreement you signed is typically between you and the broker, not the individual agent. Your agent can promise to "rip it up" all day, but until the broker signs a written release (usually called a Termination of Listing Agreement), you're still under contract. Your path: put your request in writing to the broker (not the agent), referencing the listing address and contract date. Ask for a mutual release signed by both sides. Keep email copies. If the broker refuses, review the agreement for a cancellation clause. Some have fees, most do not if the home hasn't been marketed yet. Also check the "protection period." If you sell to a buyer the agent introduced during the listing window, commission may still be owed for a set period after cancellation (typically 30 to 180 days). Don't list with him and then fire him. Handle it clean now. -- Kevin Neely | K2 Sells

If he said he'll rip it up, get it in writing. A verbal promise means nothing if there's a signed contract on file. Here's what to do. Send him a text or email right now saying something like "per our conversation, I'm requesting a written mutual release from our listing agreement. Please send the cancellation document for my signature." This creates a paper trail and puts the ball in his court. Until you have a signed cancellation or mutual release in your hands, you are still under contract. Do not sign with another agent, do not list with anyone else, and do not assume it's handled just because he said so on the phone. Commission disputes are real and they get ugly. Most listing agreements have a termination clause that explains how either party can cancel. Pull yours out and read it. Look for any cancellation fees or notice requirements. Some agreements require written notice with a specific number of days before it's officially terminated. If he drags his feet or stops responding, contact his broker directly. The broker is the one who actually holds the listing agreement, and they can authorize the release. If that doesn't work, your state's real estate commission handles complaints about agents who won't release clients from contracts. Do not list with him just to fire him later. That creates a mess with potential commission obligations and doesn't solve anything. Get the clean release first, then move on. Barrett Henry Broker Associate | REALTOR® RE/MAX Collective · The NOW Team Tampa Bay, Florida nowtb.com

If the listing agent gave you authorization to withdraw your listing, you would contact them to have this done. You can confirm this is done by Googling your address as the property will no longer show up as active, therefore no longer be on these websites showing for sale. Good luck! Keith Jean-Pierre Managing Principal The Dapper Agents Team Operations In: NY, NJ, FL & CA

Do not rely on a verbal promise to rip it up. Get the cancellation in writing, full stop. A signed cancellation agreement or a mutual release form from the brokerage is the only thing that actually protects you. If he told you verbally it is done but nothing was signed, that agreement may still be legally binding and you could owe him a commission if the home sells during the contract period. Ask him directly for a written cancellation signed by both parties. Most agents will provide one without a fight if they agreed to let you out. If he resists or goes quiet, contact his broker directly since the broker is the one who actually holds the listing agreement and has the authority to release you. Do not list with him and then fire him as that creates more complications, not fewer.

If you signed an agreement last week, you are likely under a listing agreement or buyer agreement, and those are legally binding until they are canceled or expire. Now, the good news is this. If your agent told you he will “rip it up,” what you need is written confirmation of that. Here is exactly what you should do: First, ask for a formal cancellation or release in writing. This is usually called a “Termination of Agreement” or “Release and Cancellation.” Second, make sure it is signed by both you and the broker, not just the agent. The broker is who actually holds the contract. Third, confirm in writing that you are fully released with no obligations, including commission or protection periods. Until you have that signed document, assume the agreement is still in place. Now, to your question about “how do I know if he actually let me out?” You will know because you will have a signed release. If you do not have that, you are still technically under contract. And one more important thing. Do not go sign with another agent until this is fully resolved. That can create a conflict and potentially put you in a situation where two agents claim commission.

Yes, in many cases you can cancel a listing agreement, but it depends on the terms of the contract you signed. If you signed the agreement only last week and the agent told you he would “rip it up,” the best way to protect yourself is to ask for written confirmation that the contract has been cancelled. Most listing agreements can be terminated if both parties agree in writing. The safest approach is to request a signed cancellation or release form showing that you are no longer under contract with that agent. You generally should not list with the agent and then try to fire them later, because once the home is listed you may still be obligated to pay a commission if the property sells during the contract period. Best next step: Ask the agent for a written cancellation or termination of the listing agreement so you have proof the contract is no longer valid.

1. Get a written cancellation or release In Florida, listing agreements are contracts, so the only safe way to cancel is to get a written release signed by the brokerage. Most brokerages use a form called a listing cancellation or termination agreement that releases both parties from the contract. Once signed, the listing agreement you signed (often the Florida Exclusive Right of Sale Listing Agreement used by Florida Realtors) is officially terminated. ✅ Ask for: A signed cancellation form Or written confirmation the listing agreement is terminated 2. Don’t just rely on “he’ll rip it up” Even if the agent says he’ll tear up the contract, you should still get proof in writing. Good options: Email stating “The listing agreement is cancelled and you are released.” Signed termination form from the brokerage The broker (not just the agent) technically controls the listing agreement.

The other response is good advice. One additional thing I would make sure of is that you are not only released from the listing agreement itself, but also from any survival or protection clauses in the contract. Many listing agreements include what is called a “protection period” or “tail period.” That means if the agent introduced a buyer to the property during the listing, they may still be entitled to a commission if that buyer purchases the home within a certain time frame after the agreement ends. Sometimes this period can be 30, 60, or even 90 days depending on the contract. So if you are asking to cancel, make sure the written cancellation specifically states that: • The listing agreement is terminated • You are fully released from the agreement • Any protection period or trailing commission rights are waived, unless there are specific buyers already identified in writing Also, I would strongly recommend getting the release in writing and signed by the brokerage, not just the individual agent. In most cases the contract is actually with the brokerage, not the agent personally. Until you have that written release, assume the agreement is still active. A good agent should have no problem providing a simple mutual cancellation and release form if both parties agree to part ways. It keeps everything clean and prevents headaches later.