What is a real estate listing?

A real estate listing is fundamentally defined as an agreement between a property owner and a real estate broker. This agreement typically allows the broker to market the property for sale or lease and gives them the authority to find potential buyers or tenants. The terms of the listing dictate various details such as the duration of the agreement, the listing price, and the commission to be paid upon a successful sale.

This arrangement is crucial in facilitating transactions in the real estate market, as it formally acknowledges the broker's role in the sales process and ensures that the owner receives professional services in promoting their property. The existence of a listing agreement also provides legal protection for both parties involved, clarifying expectations and responsibilities.

While advertisements in newspapers are often a part of the marketing strategy following the establishment of a listing, they do not encapsulate the legal and transactional aspects intrinsic to a listing agreement. Similarly, public records of property ownership pertain to property titles and deeds, which demonstrate ownership rather than the process of listing a property for sale. Lastly, a written offer from a buyer to a seller signifies a bid to purchase a property but does not constitute a listing, as it represents steps that follow after the property has been officially listed with a broker.