Which party does an exclusive right to sell listing obtained by a broker associate belong to?

An exclusive right to sell listing obtained by a broker associate belongs to the employing broker only. This is due to the fact that in real estate transactions, the broker associate works under the auspices of a licensed broker, often referred to as the employing broker.

When a broker associate secures a listing, it is the employing broker who holds the legal right to the listing agreement with the seller. This structure is in place to ensure that all transactions are under the supervision of a licensed broker, which is essential for compliance with state laws and regulations governing real estate practices.

Additionally, the employing broker is responsible for managing the transaction, ensuring proper marketing of the property, and overseeing the broker associate’s activities. While the broker associate may be the one interacting directly with the seller, any agreements made regarding the sale of the property ultimately bind the employing broker, who retains the fiduciary responsibility to the seller.