1.
In describing the relationship between a seller and a salesperson employed by the listing broker, the salesperson is considered:
Correct Answer
A. An agent of the seller
Explanation
The salesperson is considered an agent of the seller because they are employed by the listing broker, who is acting as the seller's representative. As an agent, the salesperson has a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of the seller and has the authority to negotiate and enter into contracts on behalf of the seller.
2.
A real estate broker who has been appointed as a subagent for a seller, with the seller's approval, has which of the following duties?
Correct Answer
B. A fiduciary duty to the seller only
Explanation
The correct answer is "a fiduciary duty to the seller only." When a real estate broker is appointed as a subagent for a seller, they have a legal and ethical obligation to act in the best interests of the seller. This fiduciary duty means that the broker must prioritize the seller's interests above their own and any other parties involved in the transaction. They must provide honest and fair representation to the seller, maintain confidentiality, and disclose any relevant information that may impact the seller's decision-making process. The broker does not owe a fiduciary duty to the buyer or the broker who appointed them as a subagent.
3.
When a real estate broker has been authorized by another real estate broker to act as a subagent for a seller and the seller has approved the appointment of the subagent, the subagent is primarily responsible to:
Correct Answer
B. The seller
Explanation
When a real estate broker is authorized by another broker to act as a subagent for a seller and the seller approves the appointment, the subagent is primarily responsible to the seller. This means that the subagent must prioritize the interests and needs of the seller above all else. The subagent acts as a representative of the seller and owes them fiduciary duties, such as loyalty, confidentiality, and full disclosure. While the broker who appointed the subagent may have some oversight and involvement, the subagent's main responsibility lies with the seller.
4.
When a real estate broker is employed to represent a seller in the sale of a property, the broker is usually employed to act as:
Correct Answer
D. A special agent
Explanation
When a real estate broker is employed to represent a seller in the sale of a property, they are typically employed as a special agent. A special agent is someone who is authorized to perform specific acts on behalf of the principal (seller) and has limited authority. In this case, the broker is specifically hired to represent the seller in the sale of the property, and their authority is limited to the scope of that transaction. They do not have the authority to make decisions or take actions outside of this specific role.
5.
The agency of a real estate broker may be established by:
Correct Answer
D. Any of the above
Explanation
The agency of a real estate broker may be established by any of the above options, which include express agreement, implied agreement, ratification, or estoppel. This means that the broker can be authorized to act on behalf of the client through a formal agreement, through the actions and conduct of both parties, through the client's acceptance of the broker's actions, or through the legal principle of estoppel. These various methods provide flexibility in establishing the agency relationship between the broker and the client.
6.
The term "estoppel" describes:
Correct Answer
C. A document confirming the terms of a lease and that tenant has no claims against the landlord
Explanation
Estoppel is a legal doctrine that prevents a person from asserting a claim or right that contradicts what they have previously stated or agreed upon. In the context of the given options, a document confirming the terms of a lease and stating that the tenant has no claims against the landlord aligns with the concept of estoppel. This document would serve as evidence of the agreement between the parties and prevent the tenant from later making claims that are inconsistent with the terms outlined in the document.
7.
A broker provided agency services for both a buyer and a seller without the proper disclosures because he was unaware that both the buyer and the seller considered him to be their agent. Consequently, the broker was involved in which of the following:
Correct Answer
C. Ostensible agency
Explanation
The correct answer is ostensible agency. In this scenario, the broker acted as an agent for both the buyer and the seller without their knowledge. This created an ostensible agency, where the broker appeared to have the authority to act on behalf of both parties, even though he did not actually have the proper disclosures or consent.
8.
The fiduciary relationship between an agent and the principal is comparable to the relationship between:
Correct Answer
D. Trustee and beneficiary
Explanation
The fiduciary relationship between an agent and the principal is comparable to the relationship between a trustee and beneficiary. In both cases, there is a legal and ethical duty for the agent/trustee to act in the best interests of the principal/beneficiary. The agent/trustee must exercise loyalty, care, and skill in managing the affairs of the principal/beneficiary. They are entrusted with the responsibility of making decisions and taking actions that will benefit the principal/beneficiary and not their own personal interests.
9.
The relationship of a broker representing a principal when dealing with a third party in selling, buying, or exchanging property is defined as all of the following except:
Correct Answer
C. An attorney-in-fact relationship
Explanation
The relationship of a broker representing a principal when dealing with a third party in selling, buying, or exchanging property is defined as a fiduciary relationship, an agency relationship, and a broker/client relationship. However, it is not defined as an attorney-in-fact relationship. An attorney-in-fact relationship typically involves granting someone the power to act on behalf of another person in legal matters, which is different from the relationship between a broker and a principal in real estate transactions.
10.
Agents must present offers to the seller until:
Correct Answer
D. Close of escrow
Explanation
Agents must present offers to the seller until the close of escrow. This means that agents are required to continue presenting offers to the seller until the escrow process is completed and the property officially changes ownership. It is important for agents to fulfill this duty in order to ensure that the seller has the opportunity to consider all potential offers and make an informed decision.
11.
If a real estate broker fails to obey all lawful instructions given by his principal, the broker could be:
Correct Answer
C. Liable in damages for any injuries suffered by the principal as a result
Explanation
If a real estate broker fails to obey all lawful instructions given by his principal, the broker could be liable in damages for any injuries suffered by the principal as a result. This means that the broker would be held responsible for any harm or losses that the principal experiences due to the broker's failure to follow instructions. This could involve financial compensation to the principal to cover the damages incurred.
12.
A seller entered into an oral listing agreement to sell real property with the broker, without a subsequent written verification. The payment of a commission to the broker under these circumstances would be:
Correct Answer
A. Permissible if the seller elects to do so
Explanation
In this scenario, the seller and broker entered into an oral listing agreement to sell real property. Although it is generally recommended to have a subsequent written verification, the payment of a commission to the broker would still be permissible if the seller chooses to do so. While it may not be the best practice and could potentially lead to misunderstandings or disputes, it is not a violation of any regulations or criminal law. It is ultimately up to the seller to decide whether they want to honor the oral agreement and pay the commission to the broker.
13.
When dealing with the general public, which of the following may a broker not do?
Correct Answer
C. Remain silent regarding material facts known only to him
Explanation
A broker may not remain silent regarding material facts known only to him when dealing with the general public. This is because brokers have a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of their clients and provide them with all relevant information. By remaining silent about material facts, the broker would be withholding important information that could potentially affect the client's decision-making process. Therefore, it is not permissible for a broker to remain silent in such situations.
14.
Both the seller and broker were sued by the buyer because the broker failed to disclose the leaky roof to the buyer. The broker knew of the problem but forgot to disclose it to the buyer. The probable result of the lawsuit would be:
Correct Answer
D. Buyer would be successful in the suit against both seller and broker and the seller would be successful in the suit against the broker
Explanation
The buyer would be successful in the suit against both the seller and the broker because the broker failed to disclose the leaky roof to the buyer, despite knowing about the problem. This failure to disclose important information is a breach of the broker's duty to the buyer. Additionally, the seller would be successful in a suit against the broker because the broker's failure to disclose the leaky roof could potentially lead to financial consequences for the seller as well.
15.
When a broker, while acting as an agent for the seller in a sale of real property, misrepresents the property to a buyer, the broker may cause the seller to be subjected to:
Correct Answer
D. Any of the above
Explanation
When a broker misrepresents the property to a buyer while acting as an agent for the seller in a sale of real property, it can lead to various consequences for the seller. The buyer may choose to rescind the contract, meaning they can cancel the agreement and potentially seek a refund of any money paid. Additionally, the buyer may take legal action against the seller, seeking damages for any losses suffered as a result of the misrepresentation. Lastly, the broker's actions can also expose the seller to tort liability, which means they may be held responsible for any damages caused by the broker's misrepresentation. Therefore, any of the options mentioned can be a consequence for the seller in this situation.
16.
A broker made a sale to a buyer based on false information provided by the seller. The broker acted in good faith and had reasonably relied on the false information. Thereafter, the buyer rescinded the contract because of the fraud. Under these circumstances, the broker is normally entitled to:
Correct Answer
B. A full commission and indemnity for any liability caused by legal action by the defrauded buyer against the broker
Explanation
The broker is normally entitled to a full commission and indemnity for any liability caused by legal action by the defrauded buyer against the broker because the broker acted in good faith and reasonably relied on false information provided by the seller. Even though the buyer rescinded the contract due to fraud, the broker should still be compensated for their services and protected from any legal actions taken against them by the buyer.
17.
The agency disclosure form must be given to the parties in which of the following transactions?
Correct Answer
D. Sale of a residential triplex
Explanation
The agency disclosure form must be given to the parties in a sale of a residential triplex. This form is required in transactions involving residential properties, and a triplex falls under this category. It is important to provide this form to ensure that all parties involved are aware of the agency relationship and any potential conflicts of interest.
18.
Which of the following is true concerning a buyer agency?
Correct Answer
B. The agent represents buyers only
Explanation
A buyer agency refers to a situation where the agent exclusively represents the buyers. This means that the agent's primary responsibility is to protect and advocate for the best interests of the buyers throughout the real estate transaction. This arrangement is common in many real estate markets and is aimed at ensuring that buyers have dedicated representation and guidance in their property purchase process.
19.
Which of the following is not a required step for a licensee under the current agency disclosure law?
Correct Answer
A. Representation
20.
When a real estate agent acts as a dual agent for both the buyer and seller in a 1031 exchange, and does not disclose his dual agency to both parties, he may:
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
When a real estate agent acts as a dual agent for both the buyer and seller in a 1031 exchange without disclosing this dual agency to both parties, several consequences may occur. Firstly, this action may provide grounds for either party to rescind the purchase agreement, as the lack of disclosure can be seen as a breach of trust. Secondly, the agent may be prevented from receiving any commission for their services due to their failure to disclose the dual agency. Lastly, the Real Estate Commissioner may discipline the agent for their unethical behavior. Therefore, the correct answer is "all of the above."
21.
All of the following statements are true concerning an in-house sale, except:
Correct Answer
C. The listing broker can act as an agent for the buyer only
Explanation
The correct answer is that the listing broker can act as an agent for the buyer only. This means that in an in-house sale, the listing broker can represent the buyer and work solely in their best interest. However, they cannot act as an agent for the seller or act as a dual agent representing both the buyer and the seller in the transaction.
22.
All of the following will terminate an agency relationship, except:
Correct Answer
D. Estoppel
Explanation
An agency relationship may be created by but not terminated by estoppel
23.
Which of the following is a common agency relationship under California law?
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
All of the options listed (agent for seller, agent for buyer, and dual agent) are common agency relationships under California law. An agent for a seller represents the seller's interests in a transaction, an agent for a buyer represents the buyer's interests, and a dual agent represents both the buyer and the seller in the same transaction. Therefore, all of these options are correct.
24.
Why do some clients prefer "single agency" representation?
Correct Answer
B. The "single agency" broker is more client oriented
Explanation
Some clients prefer "single agency" representation because the "single agency" broker is more client oriented. This means that the broker prioritizes the needs and interests of the client above all else. By having one salesperson become the agent for the seller and another salesperson become the agent for the buyer, the broker can provide personalized and dedicated service to both parties. Additionally, in a "single agency" transaction, the seller cannot choose their own broker or represent themselves, which ensures that the broker is solely focused on advocating for the client's best interests.
25.
When a broker obtains confidential financial information about his principal during a real estate transaction, that information must be kept confidential for how long?
Correct Answer
D. Forever
Explanation
When a broker obtains confidential financial information about his principal during a real estate transaction, that information must be kept confidential forever. This means that the broker is obligated to never disclose or share this information with anyone, even after the close of escrow or the completion of the transaction. The confidentiality of the principal's financial information is paramount and must be maintained indefinitely by the broker.
26.
When a broker has an enforceable listing he must do which of the following to earn a commission:
Correct Answer
D. Either "B" or "C" will earn a commission
Explanation
When a broker has an enforceable listing, they must either submit a full price offer from a buyer ready, willing, and able to purchase on the exact terms of the listing or secure a binding contract between the buyer and the seller in order to earn a commission.
27.
When you, as a real estate agent, know that the seller will not accept an offer from the buyer, you should not do which of the following:
Correct Answer
D. Change the buyer's offer to what you believe the seller will accept, initial the changes, and then present the offer to the seller
28.
A real estate agent handling the sale of four or less residential units must elect his or her agency relationship to all the parties:
Correct Answer
A. As soon as practical
Explanation
When a real estate agent is handling the sale of four or fewer residential units, they are required to elect their agency relationship to all parties involved as soon as practical. This means that the agent must disclose their agency relationship and any potential conflicts of interest to the buyers and sellers as soon as it is reasonable to do so. This ensures transparency and allows all parties to make informed decisions throughout the process of buying or selling the property.
29.
A seller accepted an offer presented by a real estate broker. During escrow, the seller discovered that the buyer was the brother of the broker. This relationship was not disclosed in the offer. The seller can:
Correct Answer
C. Cancel the transaction without liability for the commission
Explanation
In this scenario, the seller can cancel the transaction without being liable for the commission because the buyer's relationship with the broker was not disclosed in the offer. This lack of disclosure can be seen as a breach of trust and potentially a conflict of interest, which gives the seller the right to cancel the transaction without any penalties or liability for the commission.
30.
If a seller no longer wants the broker to represent him during the term of an exclusive right to sell listing, the seller may:
Correct Answer
B. Revoke the listing contract but may be liable for damages
Explanation
If a seller no longer wants the broker to represent him during the term of an exclusive right to sell listing, the seller can revoke the listing contract. However, by doing so, the seller may be liable for damages. This means that the seller may have to compensate the broker for any losses or expenses incurred as a result of the contract being terminated prematurely. Therefore, while the seller has the right to revoke the listing, they should be aware of the potential financial consequences.