Humber/Ontario Real Estate Course 3 Exam Practice

According to standard real estate practices, what is the accurate protocol for a seller's agent wanting to advertise that a famous person owns the listed property?

1. The agent must obtain explicit permission from the seller.

2. The agent can proceed without consent given the public nature of listing information.

3. The agent must notify the local media before running such ads.

4. The agent must get consent from both the seller and the listing broker.

5. The agent must get verbal consent if the information is used internally.

6. The agent can use the information only if the owner is a public figure by default.

The correct answer is: The agent must obtain explicit permission from the seller.

The accurate protocol for a seller's agent wanting to advertise that a famous person owns the listed property is to obtain explicit permission from the seller. This requirement stems from the fundamental principle of respecting client confidentiality and the right to privacy. Even if the property is owned by a public figure, the agent must still prioritize the seller's wishes regarding how and when their ownership status is disclosed to the public. By obtaining explicit permission, the agent ensures they are acting ethically and professionally, complying with industry standards and legal expectations. Unauthorized disclosure could lead to the seller feeling misrepresented or exploited, potentially resulting in disputes or loss of trust. Therefore, securing the seller's consent safeguards the agent's business relationships and upholds the integrity of the real estate profession.