In the absence of a specific termination date, how long does a brokerage relationship last before terminating?

In Virginia, when a brokerage relationship is established without a specific termination date mentioned in the agreement, the law defaults to a duration of 90 days for the relationship to remain in effect. This provision helps to provide clarity and predictability for both the client and the broker, ensuring that there is a clear understanding of the time frame within which the services will be provided.

The 90-day term is significant in that it not only reflects a reasonable period for the parties to evaluate the effectiveness of their collaboration but also allows sufficient time to market a property or address the client's real estate needs. After this period, if no further agreement is made, the brokerage relationship will automatically terminate, ensuring that both parties can reassess their needs and make informed decisions moving forward.