When does an agency relationship typically end?

An agency relationship typically ends when the transaction is completed. This is because the purpose of the agency relationship is to facilitate a specific transaction, whether it's buying or selling real estate. Once the parties successfully fulfill the terms of the agreement and the sale is finalized, the responsibilities and obligations that define the agency relationship also conclude.

While there are other scenarios in which an agency relationship might end, such as mutual agreement or expiration of the contract, the completion of a transaction is the most common and straightforward reason for termination. It signals that the agent has fulfilled their role in the agreement, and the client no longer needs representation.

Expressing dissatisfaction, the agent's discretion, or the client's decision to sell their property do not, in themselves, necessarily end an agency relationship. Dissatisfaction may lead to discussions about potential changes, but it doesn't automatically terminate the relationship. An agent cannot unilaterally terminate the relationship without a valid reason, and a client considering selling their property does not inherently mean the agency relationship is over until the transaction is formally concluded.