What should be done if a listing agreement expires but the agent wishes to continue working with the seller?

When a listing agreement expires and an agent wishes to continue working with the seller, it is essential to establish a new, formal agreement to define the terms of the relationship moving forward. A new agreement is necessary to ensure that both parties are clear about the expectations, obligations, and any potential compensation for the services the agent will provide.

This action protects both the seller and the agent by outlining the specific terms, including the duration of the new agreement and the commission structure. Working without an updated and signed agreement could lead to misunderstandings or disputes regarding representation and compensation, which can be problematic for both the agent and the seller.

Other options, such as extending the agreement verbally, would lack the formal documentation needed for legal enforcement and clarity, while continuing without compensation would not be a sustainable business practice for any agent. Prohibiting further contact would also not be practical, as the agent may wish to maintain the relationship with the seller to help them in their real estate needs. Thus, creating a new agreement is the most appropriate approach to continue the professional relationship in alignment with real estate regulations.