Is it the law that an agent can not show a property (open house) with out a signed listing agreement ?

Question

Hum..................

So much for a stright answer :(

Answer 1

I would think so --- why would you give them a key? with out one

Answer 2

A listing agreement is a contract.  A verbal agreement is also a contract, and could be a listing agreement.  Verbal contracts are valid, but are near impossible to prove.  So I don't imagine it's illegal.  However, your agent is probably a member of the local board of Realtors, which will usually require a written listing agreement.  So the agent may be in violation of his/her membership agreement with the board, and may be sanctioned by the board for such an offense.

Answer 3

Well, how did the Realtor get a key to show the property in the first place?

That would have been my first question.

It's not illegal, however, it's stupid on the Realtor's part.  That is the difference between breaking and entering and having legal proof you have the right to bring strangers into someone's home.

PS:  Verbal contracts in real estate sales and listings are NOT legally enforceable...at all.  Not "near impossible"...but not at all.  That is what makes real estate law different from any other property law.

If you sent a flyer to 1,000,000 people that you would sell John Doe your house for $100.00 at 123 Main Street...John Doe WOULD NOT COLLECT in court if the seller refused to sell it to him...unless John had a signed, legal contract by BOTH the seller and the buyer.

That is how it works.

They teach you that your first day in real estate school.

Answer 4

It IS the law that an agent must have a listing agreement to show a sproperty.  I would guess that in most states, it must be in writing and must follow a form approved by the state's real estate commission.

Answer 5

not sure if you have an agent already with a listing agreement but if you do not then nooo it would be a waste of the real estate agents time b.c if someone she showed the property too wanted to buy she is not protected to recieve a commision....hence the legalities of it! Good luck and if you trust your agent...sign up

Answer 6

So much for a straight question.