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Ethics & Fraudmedium17% of exam

A borrower provides a lease agreement showing $3,500 monthly rental income from a basement apartment. During the property inspection, the MLO discovers the basement has no separate entrance and shares utilities with the main residence. What red flag does this scenario present?

Correct Answer

B) The property may not legally qualify as a rental unit under local zoning laws

When a property lacks the basic characteristics of a legal rental unit (separate entrance, utilities), it may violate local zoning ordinances or building codes, making the claimed rental income fraudulent. MLOs must verify that rental properties are legally permitted for rental use.

Answer Options
A
The rental income amount is too high for market conditions
B
The property may not legally qualify as a rental unit under local zoning laws
C
The borrower failed to provide tenant contact information
D
The lease agreement lacks proper notarization

Why This Is the Correct Answer

When a property lacks the basic characteristics of a legal rental unit (separate entrance, utilities), it may violate local zoning ordinances or building codes, making the claimed rental income fraudulent. MLOs must verify that rental properties are legally permitted for rental use.

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