If a listing agreement is not in writing, what legal requirement is not satisfied?

The correct answer is the Statute of Frauds. This legal doctrine requires certain contracts, including real estate listing agreements, to be in writing to be enforceable. The rationale behind the Statute of Frauds is to prevent misunderstandings and fraudulent claims that can arise when agreements are made verbally. When a listing agreement is not documented in writing, it fails to meet this fundamental legal requirement, which can lead to challenges in enforcing the terms of the agreement in court.

Understanding the importance of written agreements in real estate transactions is crucial. In the context of agency relationships, having a written listing agreement not only provides clear evidence of the terms agreed upon by the parties but also delineates the rights and obligations of both the agent and the principal. Thus, without a written listing agreement, a party may find themselves without recourse or protection under the law in the event of a dispute or a claim for commission.