Expert: Dick Dennis - 7/30/2008

Question
I signed a contract with an agent to sell a home in Washington state 2 1/2
weeks ago.  I have decided not to sell.  I don't have a copy of the contract.  What
needs to be done to cancel this contract?

Answer
You go to your agent and ask that same question, Deanne. He/she may say that advertising money has been spent for which you would have to pay back. That's the first thing. But ask them for an accounting before you decide to pay them. If you do not get satisfaction from the agent, then talk to the agent's boss, the office manager. Obviously, in a market that requires an average of 60-90 days to sell a property, depending on the price, you have not given the agent enough time to perform. And this will be pointed out to you.

The first thing, the agent is going to suspect is that you have discovered someone who wants to buy the house but without an agent in the picture. Be aware, that the agent and his boss may install a protection clause in cancelling the contract. If indeed you do not have a buyer "waiting in the wings" then you have nothing to worry about. Or, you can go consult a real estate attorney and that person may come up with an idea or two. I do wish you well.

Dick Dennis