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Laws Of Agency Fiduciary DutiesListing_agreementsMEDIUM

A California seller signed a six-month exclusive right to sell listing with a broker. Two months into the listing, the seller wants to cancel the agreement due to dissatisfaction with the broker's marketing. What is the seller's most legally accurate course of action?

Correct Answer

B) Negotiate a mutual cancellation with the broker, since unilateral termination may expose the seller to liability for damages or commission

An exclusive right to sell listing is a bilateral contract binding both parties for its stated term. The seller cannot unilaterally cancel without risking a breach of contract claim, which may entitle the broker to damages or the full commission. The legally sound approach is to negotiate a mutual cancellation agreement (release) with the broker. Many brokers will agree to a mutual release to preserve their professional reputation, but they are not required to do so.

Answer Options
A
Cancel the listing in writing and notify the DRE, which will formally terminate the agreement
B
Negotiate a mutual cancellation with the broker, since unilateral termination may expose the seller to liability for damages or commission
C
Stop cooperating with showings, which constructively terminates the listing after 30 days under California law
D
File a complaint with the broker's supervising office, which triggers an automatic 30-day cancellation period

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Related Topics & Key Terms

Key Terms:

listing_cancellationmutual_releasebreach_of_contractseller_rights

Related Concepts

The legal requirement for real estate agents to inform all parties about who they represent in a transaction, typically provided at first substantive contact.

A legal relationship in which one person (the agent) is authorized to act on behalf of another person (the principal) in business transactions with third parties.

The legal ending of an agency relationship, which can occur through completion, expiration, mutual agreement, breach, death, incapacity, or bankruptcy of either party.

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