If I change my mind after signing a lisiting agreement what steps can I take to cancel with this agent?

Bridget
Home Seller
Round Lake Beach, IL

I did not receive a copy of the agreement and everything took place so fast. The lock-box was placed on my home the same day and when I called the agent to get a copy he said he could email me a copy after his "manager" signs the contract. I don't want to say he is a con artist, we only met him once, but it all seems like a scam!

Answers (5)
Julie Anne
Agent
Barrington, IL

Bridget,
I would just talk to the agent. It sounds like there is some mis-communication going on.
Maybe he is a new agent and is doing the best job he can.
We are in the middle of the holiday season, there is more going on right now than usual.
If you are really not happy with the agent, ask if you can cancel and express your feelings. The selling process is long and you need to be able to communicate with your agent. It depends on your signed contract, the office can hold you to the contract. If you have a fax, they can fax it to you or drop it off at your home.

Good luck,

Julie Anne
Barrington IL Realtor http://www.homesbyjulieanne.com
blog http://:www.deerparkbarringtonrealestate.com
julie@homesbyjulieanne.com

Tue Dec 2 2008, 08:40
Mike Stodola
Agent
Libertyville, IL

Bridget,
You have a very good question but the answer depends on several factors including exactly what your listing contract agreement says. I'd be happy to discuss your options with you, but would need more details. Feel free to call at 847-557-1622.

Good luck!
Mike Stodola

Mon Dec 1 2008, 15:22
Keith Sorem
Agent
Glendale, CA

Bridget
Two main questions:
Are you planning to sell with a different agent?
Did you decide not to sell?

DRE rules may be broken.

In most states you are required to have copies of all documents within 24 hours. If you have not received them, I would call the agent's broker.

If you are planning to list with another agent, the listing agreement is with the broker. The Realtor is the broker's agent. Depending upon the circumstances, the broker might be willing to:
1. Cancel the agreement
2. Explain why you don't want to do business with this Realtor. If the broker could arrange for you to work with someone you would like (like one of their top agents), maybe that would work for you.

It is not uncommon for owners to get cold feet. Moving is a complex issue, and selling a home an emotional one. You might want to sit down with a good friend to make sure you are thinking it all through.

Good luck, post more if you need to.

Thu Nov 27 2008, 08:18
Jonathan Power
Agent
Billerica, MA

Hi Bridget, Well I don't want to speak for everyone however I know as a Professional if someone didn't want to work with me or decided not to sell I would release them from their contract. Which I just have to say has never happened to me. Also other REALTORS/Brokers I know feel the same way. So, basically what I may trying to say is ask your Broker to release you from your contract. If you don't get anywhere with him contact his manager as they don't want unhappy clients. I hope this helps!

Jonathan Power
Licensed Massachusetts REALTOR

Wed Nov 26 2008, 19:56
Donald Bradbury
Agent
18951
FIRST ANSWER

Hi Bridget. In Pennsylvania, if a Seller decided not to sell, there are a few options.
1- You talk to the agent, and then the Broker if necessary to get a release from the agreement.
2- If you just do not want to sell, you have not lost any money, as you only pay when a sale occurrs.
3- Just have the agent remove his sign, and lockbox. Let the listing agreement expire. Be sure he puts it on active with no showings, or better yet, Temporarally off the Market.
4- If you can get the broker to agree on a release, and you have it in writing by all parties, ensure they withdraw it from the MLS and all internet web sites.

It is the duty of the Realtor to give you a copy of everything you have signed immediately after you have signed them. If you want it quicker than the mail, tell him you want it delivered to your house.

If you want to sell your home, but not with this realtor and broker, you will need a release signed by all parties before another realtor can list your home for you.

Good luck, should you need additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me
Don Bradbury

Wed Nov 26 2008, 19:52

Didn’t find what you were looking for? Ask a question!

Search Advice

Ask a question

Got a real estate question? Get answers from locals, experts and real estate pros.
Ask
Email me when…

Learn more

View all » 1 - 3 of 5
Copyright © 2009 Trulia, Inc. All rights reserved.   |   Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity
Help us improve our service—send us feedback