What does a property owner do in a listing agreement?

In a listing agreement, a property owner outlines the terms of selling their property to a real estate agent. This legal document establishes the relationship between the property owner and the agent, detailing essential elements such as the listing price, the duration of the agreement, the commission structure, and the responsibilities of both parties throughout the selling process. By clearly delineating these terms, the property owner grants the agent the authority to market and sell the property on their behalf, which is a fundamental aspect of real estate transactions.

The other options represent actions that, while related to the overall process of selling a home, do not correctly define the primary role of the owner in the context of a listing agreement. Direct negotiation with buyers typically falls under the responsibilities of the agent, assessing mortgage options is a financial consideration separate from the agreement itself, and preparing the property for listings is usually part of the agent's role rather than the owner's primary function in the listing agreement.