Can I fire my real estate agent or cancel a listing agreement in Ontario?

Listing agreements in Ontario are contracts between you and the brokerage — not the individual agent. Cancelling the agreement early typically requires the brokerage's consent, because the contract binds both parties for the agreed listing period. A brokerage that has already invested time and marketing expenses is not required to release you without some form of settlement.

In practice, most brokerages will agree to a mutual release if you have a genuine concern — such as a serious communication breakdown or evidence that the agent is not performing their duties. However, even if the brokerage releases you, the holdover clause in your listing agreement may still apply: if a buyer who was registered during the listing period later purchases the property, the original brokerage may be entitled to commission.

RECO (the Real Estate Council of Ontario) is the regulatory body that handles consumer complaints against agents and brokerages. If an agent has acted unprofessionally or violated their duties, a RECO complaint is one avenue. For commission disputes or wrongful termination of the listing, a real estate lawyer can advise you on your rights and help negotiate a release.