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If you're getting into real estate—whether as a future agent or a homeowner looking to buy or sell—you’re going to hear a lot of industry terms. Some of them might sound confusing at first, but knowing what they mean will make things much easier. It helps you stay informed, ask the right questions, and make better decisions, no matter which side of the deal you're on.
One of the most common terms you’ll come across is "listing a property." It’s a phrase you’ll hear all the time, but what does it actually mean? Let’s break it down in a simple way.
A listing agreement is a contract between a property owner and a real estate broker. This agreement gives the broker the right to represent the owner in selling or renting the property. It clearly lays out what the broker is responsible for and how they will be paid for their services.
Once signed, this contract creates a legal relationship between both parties. The broker is expected to market the property, find potential buyers or tenants, and handle negotiations. In return, the owner agrees to pay a commission based on the terms mentioned in the agreement.
Since this is a legally binding contract, breaking it can have legal consequences for both the broker and the client. If either party does not follow the terms, it can lead to disputes, penalties, or even legal action. Before signing, it is important to carefully read the agreement and understand the responsibilities on both sides.
When you sign a listing agreement, you are officially giving a broker the right to market your property and guide you through the buying or selling process. This agreement lays out exactly what the broker will do, so there are no misunderstandings along the way.
The broker’s job includes listing your property on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), arranging property showings, and handling negotiations on your behalf. Everything is written down in the agreement, including how long the contract lasts and how the broker will be paid. This way, both you and the broker know what to expect, making the entire process smoother and more straightforward.
When selling a property, the type of listing agreement you choose affects how much control you have and how brokers earn their commission. Here’s a closer look at some of the main types.
This is the least restrictive type of listing. You can work with multiple brokers at the same time, and only the one who brings in a buyer gets paid. If you find a buyer on your own, you don’t owe anyone a commission. While this setup gives you flexibility, brokers are less likely to invest time and effort since there’s no guarantee of payment. That’s why open listings are not very common.
A multiple listing agreement allows your property to be shared in a multiple listing service (MLS), giving it maximum exposure to potential buyers. Brokers from different agencies can see the property details and bring buyers to the table. While the listing broker still manages the sale, other brokers can cooperate to help find a buyer faster. This setup increases the chances of selling the property quickly and at a competitive price.
This is the most commonly used listing agreement. You grant one broker full control over marketing and selling the property for a set period. Even if you find a buyer yourself, you must still pay the broker their commission. This arrangement makes things clear-cut, avoids disputes, and ensures the broker is fully committed to selling your property.
This agreement is similar to an exclusive right to sell listing, but with one major difference—you don’t have to pay a commission if you find the buyer yourself. The broker only gets paid if they or another agent under them sell the property. While this might sound like a good deal for you, it often leads to disputes over who actually found the buyer. That’s why it’s not widely used in residential sales.
This one works differently. Instead of a standard commission, you set a minimum price you want for your property, and the broker keeps anything above that amount as their commission. While it may seem beneficial to the seller, this setup creates a conflict of interest. The broker might push for a higher price just to increase their earnings. Because of this, net listings are often seen as unethical and are even illegal in many states.
Once your listing agreement is in place, the next step is to make your property stand out. This is where tech-driven tools from Styldod can help. Whether it’s a home or commercial space, presentation matters—and Styldod makes it easier to impress potential buyers.
Here’s how:
Styldod allows you to transform empty spaces into beautifully staged homes. With virtual staging, you can show off a property’s potential without the hassle of physical furniture. You can also take things further with commercial staging for businesses or even combine staging with immersive 3D tours for a more engaging experience.
Make your listing shine with Styldod’s photo editing services. From turning occupied spaces into vacant ones to enhancing exterior photos with dusk lighting for curb appeal, Styldod’s team ensures your images look professional. We can also remove any distractions from your photos with our object removal service to make your property the star of the show.
With accurate floor plans, 3D renders, and 360° virtual tours, Styldod helps buyers visualise the property’s layout and potential. Buyers can explore the property remotely, making the experience more interactive and convenient.
Choosing the right listing agreement depends on your needs, how much control you want over the sale, and how you prefer to work with brokers. Understanding these options helps you make a better decision and avoid unnecessary complications.
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