EstatePass
Contracts & AgreementsListing AgreementsONMEDIUM

A listing agreement expires on June 15th. On June 20th, a buyer who was shown the property during the listing period submits an offer that is accepted. Under typical listing agreement terms, is the seller obligated to pay commission?

Correct Answer

B) Yes, due to the holdover clause protection period

Most listing agreements contain a holdover clause that protects the listing brokerage's right to commission for a specified period after expiry if the property is sold to someone who was introduced to the property during the listing period. This prevents sellers from avoiding commission by waiting for the listing to expire.

Answer Options
A
No, because the listing agreement had expired
B
Yes, due to the holdover clause protection period
C
Only if the seller agrees in writing
D
Yes, but at a reduced commission rate

Why This Is the Correct Answer

Option B is correct because standard listing agreements contain holdover clauses that protect the listing brokerage's commission rights for a specified period after expiry. Since the buyer was shown the property during the active listing period and submitted an offer within the holdover period, the seller remains obligated to pay commission. This clause prevents sellers from avoiding commission by timing acceptance after listing expiry, ensuring brokerages receive compensation for their marketing efforts and buyer introductions made during the listing term.

Why the Other Options Are Wrong

Deep Analysis of This Contracts & Agreements Question

Background Knowledge for Contracts & Agreements

Memory Technique

Exam Tip for Contracts & Agreements

Real World Application in Contracts & Agreements

Common Mistakes to Avoid on Contracts & Agreements Questions

Key Terms

holdover clauselisting expirycommission protectionbuyer introductionpost-expiry period
Was this explanation helpful?

More Contracts & Agreements Questions

People Also Study

Practice More Contracts & Agreements Questions

Access 540+ Canadian real estate exam questions and pass your licensing exam.

Start Practicing