Q: My 90 year old mother listed her house for sale with Realtor A for $89,900. I told her the asking price was too low.
I called Realtor B and was told her house should be worth "in the $120,000s". My mother promptly called and cancelled the original listing. (they agreed) Realtor A hadn't yet taken any pictures or even put the listing in the MLS. My mother listed with Realtor B for $124,900. The house sold within a week for full price. Realtor A sent my mother a letter stating that the original listing agreement is still in force and they expect to be paid a full commission.
An added twist: It turns out Realtor A is the buyer's agent and will be splitting the commission (on $124,900) with Realtor B. It seems to me Realtor A should be satisfied to share in the larger cut, thanks to a competent realtor's accurate valuation... and run like a thief.
A: you need to read the agreement. Unless it was formally terminated, she cant just switch without consequences. The second broker should have asked her/you whether you had a previous listing, and made arrangements. So start with #2 broker.
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