how can I cancel a contract with a realtor?

To cancel a contract, the Realtor has an addendum sheet which either changes price, extends the contract time period, and also should cancel a contract. The hitch is that there is usually a time period where a the previous Realtor(the one you just fired) can still collect on a commission if a sale happens within 3 months of cancellation, if the contract is not close to the original expiration of the contract term. Otherwise it is the original contract term that is used for the time period that a commission can be collected. Another thing that can have you on the hook for commission is if that buyer was previously shown to the property by the Realtor and that buyer wants to buy, the Realtor has a right to commission because he/she can say that they effected the sale. This is to stop backdoor dealing, which I do not condone as a Realtor. We spend a lot of money to effect a sale of your property before we receive any money from the sale. If your Realtor has done a great job and it is the market that is not selling, or the price(too High) of your home is a factor, changing Realtors is not really going to help.

For a Listing, this form is called a "Cancellation of Listing Agreement" in Ontario. I would recommend sitting down with your Realtor and discuss your reasoning for possibly wanting to cancel the contract. In some cases, it can be resolved - An open line of communication is of the uptmost importance in a contractual relationship. However, sometimes Sellers have valid reasons due to unforseen circumstances.

Hi Maureen,
Even though you may cancel your listing with the Agent, whatever the case may be, the contract is really with the Brokerage that the Agent represents. You must have a compelling argument for the Brokerage to cancel your listing (failure to do duties, a substantial financial change that compels you to not sell, etc.) The advice to have a frank discussion with your Agent is a sound one. If you have further questions, please contact me direct at tina@tinamcquaid.com or 416-602-9901.

Absolutely, well, depending. Every contract *can* be terminated, but some REALTORS® won't let you out of a contract that easy. I, and many others however, offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee. I personally strive to meet every need of my clients, and if something isn't working, we should discuss it and find a solution.

Please note, that hold over periods typically remain when a contract is cancelled. For example, with a 90 day hold over from the end of the contract, any properties your REALTOR® introduced you to, potential buyers introduced to your property etc. the REALTOR® could claim commission on even if the contract is expired or cancelled.

Talk to your REALTOR® see what their policies are regarding satisfaction!

If you are not satisfied with the kind of services your Realtor is providing you. Let him know about your disappointment, and explain him/her what you expect from him/her services. If you are extreamely dissatisfied with him/her, communicated him/her your decision to put an end to the Brokerage Contract for that reason. You can decide to do so, if things are not going the way it was agreed.

Lina Castro,
Your Real Estate Broker
Adresz Reseau Immobilier
Castro, Your trinlingual real estate services, in English, French and Spanish with fidelity and integrity!
Phone: 514-458-9153
E-mail: linacastrosells@hotmail.com Just one e-mail away from you!
I am never too busy for your referrals in Montreal, QC Canada.

Both a Listing Agreement or Buyer Representation Agreement can be cancelled provided it is done in writting with the property forms. People cancel these types of agreements for many reasons. Just keep in mind that providing a clear explanation to the Brokerage is only fair. Also make sure you sign a Cancellation/Termination not a Suspension. These are two very different request.

Both Listing Agreements and Buyer Representation Agreements have holdover clauses. The number of days is usually determined by your represntative. At the time your Agreement expires or cancels you may enter into a new agreement with another Brokerage and any holdover clause on the expired or cancelled agreement is then superseded by this new agreement.