What type of listing guarantees that the listing broker receives a commission regardless of who sells the property?

An exclusive-right-to-sell listing ensures that the listing broker is entitled to a commission regardless of who ultimately sells the property. This means that even if the seller finds a buyer independently, the broker who holds this type of listing will still earn a commission. The reason this is significant for brokers is that it provides them with exclusive rights and motivation to invest time and resources in marketing the property, knowing that their efforts will be compensated.

In contrast, an open listing allows multiple brokers to take on a property without exclusivity, meaning it is possible for a seller to pay a commission only to the broker who brings in the buyer. An exclusive agency listing still allows the seller to find a buyer independently without paying a commission to the broker, which differs from the security offered by the exclusive-right-to-sell listing. Lastly, a flat-fee listing typically involves a fixed fee for specific services rather than guaranteeing commission on a percentage basis, which does not provide the same assurance to the listing broker as the exclusive-right-to-sell listing does.