Practical broker authority guide
The marketing agreement should make service measurable.
A seller appointment is not just permission to place an advertisement. It should connect the correct property and owner authority to a defined marketing plan, fee, access process, duration and reporting standard.
Quick answer
Before signing, confirm the exact property and parties, appointment type and term, asking instructions, commission trigger, permit and advertising scope, keys and viewing control, owner reporting and termination consequences.
Reviewed: 12 July 2026
Criteria to define before the conversation
A seller appointment is not just permission to place an advertisement. It should connect the correct property and owner authority to a defined marketing plan, fee, access process, duration and reporting standard.
- Correct property, owner and brokerage identities
- Clear appointment type, duration and termination route
- Written commission, VAT and payment trigger
- Defined marketing channels, access and reporting
Questions that test the expertise
Ask for specific answers that can be connected to your brief and later evidence.
- 1Is the appointment exclusive or non-exclusive and what does that mean here?
- 2What service is promised during the term?
- 3Who approves price changes and advertisements?
- 4What obligations survive termination?
Evidence to retain
Separate what you observed, what the broker stated and what a document or official source proves.
- A complete executed agreement retained by the seller
- Permit-linked advertising using approved property facts
- Key, viewing and offer records
- Periodic performance report against the agreed plan
A practical decision process
Use the steps in order and pause commitment when a material gap appears.
- 1Verify the broker and office
- 2Read every commercial and termination field
- 3Attach or record the marketing and reporting plan
- 4Keep approvals and amendments in writing
Do not sign blank fields or rely on a verbal promise that contradicts the agreement. Obtain independent advice if the effect of exclusivity, fees or termination is unclear.
Frequently asked questions
Is exclusivity always better for a seller?
No universal answer applies. Assess the service commitment, control, duration, reporting and consequences against the owner's strategy.
Can the asking price be changed verbally?
Use a documented approval path so advertisements and negotiations do not rely on conflicting instructions.
What happens to leads after termination?
Read the agreement's continuing obligations, introduced-party and commission terms before appointment and before ending it.
Official sources and references
Procedures and fees can change. Confirm the latest position with the official source before a transaction.