18_010 Checklist for negotiating the marketing agreement

1. Scope of broker’s duties

  • This pivotal section elucidates the specific obligations that the agent will undertake throughout the marketing process.
  • Clearly outline the tasks and responsibilities the broker will undertake in marketing the property.
  • Specify details like property listing creation, showings, negotiations, and communication with potential buyers/tenants.

2. Owner’s and broker’s expenses

  • In these segments, the agreement spells out which expenditures will be covered by each party, delineating financial responsibilities.
  • Define which expenses will be covered by the property owner and which will be covered by the broker.
  • Address expenses related to marketing materials, staging, photography, and any other property promotion costs.

3. Budget

  • This section elucidates the marketing budget’s timing, preparation, and approval.
  • Set a marketing budget that covers various promotional activities.
  • Discuss how the budget will be managed, including obtaining owner approval for certain expenses.

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4. Disbursement of funds

  • This segment meticulously outlines the mechanisms and timing for the distribution of funds.
  • Specify how funds will be disbursed for marketing expenses.
  • Define the process for reimbursing expenses and how any leftover funds will be handled.

5. Employees

  • This section offers insight into the hiring and termination of employees, clearly defining the accountable party.
  • If applicable, outline the roles and responsibilities of any employees involved in the marketing process.
  • Clarify whether the broker’s team or the property owner’s team will handle certain tasks.

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6. Compensation of the broker

  • This substantial portion offers a detailed breakdown of the remuneration structure for various broker services.
  • Discuss the broker’s compensation structure for their services.
  • Address base fees, commission percentages, bonuses for achieving specific goals, and any “golden handcuff” incentives for successful deal completion.

7. Term of agreement

  • Clearly articulating the agreement’s commencement and conclusion dates, this section might also address any potential extensions.
  • Determine the duration of the agreement, specifying the start and end dates.
  • Consider including provisions for automatic renewal if both parties agree.

8. Termination

  • To preempt potential disputes, the agreement should comprehensively outline the circumstances leading to early termination and associated events.
  • Clearly define the circumstances under which either party can terminate the agreement.
  • Include notice periods and any potential penalties or fees associated with early termination.

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9. Accounting

  • Defining ongoing accounting management in case of early termination ensures the process is addressed efficiently.
  • Address how financial records and accounting related to marketing expenses and commissions will be maintained and shared.

10. Purchaser or tenant deposits

  • Guiding the placement of deposits, it is prudent to ensure that segregated escrow accounts are used, preventing mingling with the broker’s regular operational funds.
  • If applicable, outline the process for handling purchaser or tenant deposits.
  • Specify how these deposits will be managed, held, and potentially refunded.

11. Insurance

  • This component mandates the broker to maintain a specific level of liability insurance coverage.
  • Discuss insurance coverage for the property and any liability during the marketing period.
  • Determine who is responsible for maintaining insurance and mitigating risks.

12. Review of offers and negotiations

  • Clarify how the broker will present offers and facilitate negotiations with potential buyers or tenants.
  • Discuss the owner’s role in accepting or countering offers.

13. Confidentiality and non-disclosure

  • Include clauses that ensure the confidentiality of sensitive information shared during marketing.

14. Intellectual property rights

  • Address the ownership of marketing materials, photos, videos, and other promotional content created during the agreement.

15. Legal compliance

  • Specify that all marketing activities will be conducted in compliance with relevant laws, including fair housing regulations and advertising standards.

16. Governing law and dispute resolution

  • Determine which jurisdiction’s laws will govern the agreement.
  • Outline the process for resolving any disputes that may arise during the agreement.