What happens to listings?

**AlexPearson** · 06-20-2008, 09:33 AM

Hi,
I am just kind of curious, what happens to an agents listings when he or she goes to a different company? How about a different state? Can they be "sold" to another agent for a fee or something? How does this typically work. Thanks!
-Alex

**jamesww** · 06-20-2008, 10:40 AM

Originally Posted by AlexPearson

Hi,
I am just kind of curious, what happens to an agents listings when he or she goes to a different company? How about a different state? Can they be "sold" to another agent for a fee or something? How does this typically work. Thanks!
-Alex

They remain with the broker as the broker is the one who actually has the listing. Neither the agent or the broker can sell listings they are a contract between the broker and the principal solely. No transfer of the listing is allowed. The only way for the broker to earn a few is if he helps another broker sign the principal to a new contract then he can recieve a referal fee.

**minnesota-mls** · 06-23-2008, 08:06 PM

The listings stay with the company. Generally most of your sellers will agree to cancel the listing and relist with you at your new company however. Hope this helps!

**AustinBroker** · 07-06-2008, 08:36 PM

In general it is correct that the listing stays with the company, BUT that is completely negotiable. I've negotiated that my listings go with me should I leave. After all, if I spend the money marketing and do the work, why should a broker get to keep them and reap the profits? The broker in my mind is there to support me and they earn off of the benefits that they deliver to me.

my 2 cents
Joe Cline

**Texas_** · 07-07-2008, 05:33 PM

Joe is absolutely correct. This policy varies from company to company and broker to broker, sometimes even office to office. Of course, legally speaking, the listing contract is between the seller and the broker. But for all practical purposes, the 'relationship' is between seller and agent. And what happens to listings in the event of a switch is often dependent on the personalities involved, as well as the reasons for the move... good terms or bad terms. Though leaving for a new broker is rarely cause for celebration.

The truth is that most sellers have listed with an agent with whom they have a good personal relationship and a bond of trust. Most sellers have never met the broker or the office manager and couldn't even name them. In fact quite a few sellers don't understand the relationship between broker and agent, even after signing all those forms.