Which type of real estate agency relationship is created when a seller has a one-time agreement with an agent?

The type of real estate agency relationship created when a seller has a one-time agreement with an agent is known as an open listing. This arrangement allows the seller to engage multiple agents and sell the property independently as well. If a buyer is procured through the efforts of the agent, then the agent earns a commission. If the seller finds a buyer without the agent's assistance, the seller does not owe a commission to the agent.

In contrast, exclusive right to sell agreements provide that the agent will receive a commission regardless of who finds the buyer, creating a more binding commitment between the seller and a single agent. Exclusive agency is similar but allows the seller to find a buyer themselves without owing a commission, but it also limits the representation to just one agent. Agency by necessity refers to a legal doctrine that can create an agency relationship without an explicit agreement, often occurring in emergency situations, which is not relevant here.

Therefore, an open listing is characterized by its flexibility and the lack of obligation for the seller to pay the agent's commission if they themselves find a buyer.