Do I need a license to...?

Christine Marotteck -

A license is required for the following tasks:

  • Make cold calls by telephone or in-person to potential clients.
  • Show properties for sale and/or lease to prospective purchasers.
  • Host open houses, home show booths, or fairs.
  • Discuss or explain listings, offers, contracts, or other similar matters with persons outside the firm.
  • Negotiate any terms of a real estate transaction.
  • Negotiate or agree to any commission split or referral fee on behalf of a licensee.
  • Be paid any compensation which is dependent upon, or directly related to, a real estate transaction.

A license is not required for the following tasks: 

  • Answer the phone, forward calls, and give information contained only on the listing agreement as limited by the broker.
  • Fill out and submit listings and changes to any multiple-listing service.
  • Follow up on loan commitments after a contract has been negotiated and generally secure status reports on the loan progress.
  • Assemble documents for closing.
  • Secure public information from courthouses, utility districts, etc.
  • Have keys made for listings.
  • Place ads that have been approved by the Principal Broker.
  • Receive, record, and deposit earnest money, security deposits, and advance rents under the direct supervision of the Principal Broker.
  • Type contract forms for approval by the licensee and Principal Broker.
  • Monitor licenses and personnel files.
  • Calculate, print, or distribute commission checks.
  • Place signs on a property.
  • Order repairs as directed by the licensee.
  • Prepare for distribution fliers and promotional information that have been approved by the Principal Broker.
  • Deliver documents and pick up keys.
  • Place routine telephone calls on late rent payments.
  • Gather information for a comparative market analysis (CMA).
  • Unlock property under the direction of a licensee.
  • Disclose the current sales status of a listed property.

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