Nonexclusive listing contracts relating to one to 4 family residential properties, in addition to all exclusive right-to- sell and exclusive agency listing contracts, must be in writing, be signed by the person to be charged and specifically identify the date upon which the contract will expire. If the parties to the contract desire to continue the contract, a new contract must be executed.

Brokerage contracts may not be enforced against any principal who in good faith subsequently engages the services of another agency on an exclusive right-to-sell basis following the expiration date of the first contract. Any contract provisions extending a licensee's right to a fee following expiration of the contract shall may not exceed 6 months.

Brokerage agreements must specify that the real estate brokerage agency shall, at a minimum:

1.__Accept and present offers and counteroffers.__Accept delivery of and present to the client offers and counteroffers to buy or sell the client's property or the property the client seeks to purchase;

2.__Assist in preparation of offers and counteroffers.__Assist the client in developing, communicating, negotiating and presenting offers, counteroffers and notices that relate to the offers and counteroffers until a purchase agreement is signed and all contingencies are satisfied or waived;

3.__Answer questions.__Answer the client's questions relating to the offers, counteroffers, notices and contingencies; and

4.__Other services.__Provide any other minimum services or standards adopted by the commission through rulemaking pursuant to section 13065, subsection 3.

Sec. 9. 32 MRSA §13197, sub-§1, as amended by PL 1999, c. 129, §11 and affected by §16, is further amended to read:

1. Requirement. As a prerequisite to renewal of a license, applicants must complete 15 21 clock hours of continuing education within 2 years prior to the date of application in programs or courses approved by the commission. This requirement does not apply to agency and company licenses.