The short answer:
No.
An exclusive right to sell is typically signed for a specific period of time and is an if/then proposition. It states that if you sell the home, then you must pay the specified commission. Should you decide to sell the home, even on your own, you must pay the commission unless something was written into the contract stating you may self yourself. This is all contingent on the home selling.
Either way, should you decide not to sell the home you don't owe anything. The commission that you would have been required to pay is based on you selling the home. Should you decide not to sell the home, no commission will be due.
The commission that would be required is contingent on an action (the selling of the home) not an effort (attempting to sell the home). Unless the home actually sells, there is nothing to trigger the requirement that the commission be paid.
Answer Submitted on Mon, Dec 15 2008
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