Which statement is true regarding the "listing agreement"?

The correct understanding of the listing agreement focuses on its role in the real estate transaction process. The listing agreement is a binding contract between a property owner (the seller) and a real estate broker that grants the broker the authority to represent the seller in the sale of their property. This agreement outlines the broker's responsibilities, the terms of compensation, and the duration of the agreement, among other details.

By giving the broker the authority to sell the property, the listing agreement ensures that the broker has the legal right to market the property, negotiate offers, and facilitate the sales process on behalf of the seller. This arrangement is fundamental in real estate transactions, as it formalizes the broker's role and establishes a professional agreement that outlines expectations and duties.

Other options, while they may touch on aspects of real estate agreements, do not accurately describe the nature of a listing agreement. For example, stating that it is a non-binding agreement misunderstands its purpose, as a listing agreement is indeed a binding contract once executed. The assertion that it must include a closing date is incorrect because the closing date is typically determined later in the sales process and is not required in the initial listing. Finally, while it might be possible for a seller to change brokers, this is