What type of authority is granted through a written listing agreement?

Express authority is the type of authority granted through a written listing agreement. In the context of real estate, a written listing agreement formalizes the relationship between the property owner (the principal) and the real estate agent (the agent). This document explicitly outlines the agent's powers and responsibilities regarding the sale or lease of the property.

When the property owner signs a listing agreement, they are explicitly granting the agent the authority to act on their behalf in specific matters related to the property. This includes rights such as marketing the property, negotiating offers, and facilitating communications with potential buyers. Because this authority is clearly defined in writing, it is characterized as express authority.

This concept is critical in real estate because it ensures that both parties understand the scope of the agent’s powers, limiting misunderstandings and clarifying expectations. In real estate practice, express authority is foundational for establishing legal relationships and obligations that both agents and property owners must adhere to.