What should a licensee do if approached by neighbors wishing to list with them while under another broker's agreement?

When a licensee is approached by neighbors who are currently under a listing agreement with another broker, the most ethical and professional response is to advise them to put their request for future services in writing. This approach demonstrates respect for the existing contract and maintains a focus on professionalism within the real estate industry.

By suggesting they put their request in writing, the licensee is encouraging the neighbors to be transparent about their interest in seeking services after their current agreement expires. This way, it creates a formal record of the neighbors' intentions without violating any ethical standards or contracts currently in place. It also provides an avenue for potential future engagement, should the neighbors be able to legally end their current agreement, while still recognizing the validity of the existing contract.

Discussing how to get out of their current agreement or encouraging them to break it would not only be unprofessional but could also expose both the licensee and the clients to legal issues. Furthermore, informing them to contact their current broker fails to promote a possible future working relationship, and it does not provide a constructive way for the neighbors to express their interest.