Agency LawMEDIUMFREE

In Wisconsin, multiple representation (dual agency) requires:

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Duration: 2:59

Question & Answer

Review the question and all answer choices

A

No consent

No consent is never acceptable for dual agency in Wisconsin. Failing to obtain consent creates significant legal liability and violates the broker's fiduciary duties to both parties.

B

Written consent from both parties

Correct Answer
C

Only verbal consent

Verbal consent is insufficient in Wisconsin. The law specifically requires written documentation to ensure proper disclosure and to create a legal record of the agreement.

D

Court approval

Court approval is not required for dual agency in Wisconsin. The process is handled through proper disclosure and written consent between the parties and their agent.

Why is this correct?

Wisconsin law specifically requires written consent from both parties after full disclosure when representing both buyer and seller in the same transaction. This written documentation creates a legal record that clients understood the potential conflicts and agreed to the arrangement voluntarily.

Deep Analysis

AI-powered in-depth explanation of this concept

Agency relationships form the foundation of real estate transactions, establishing legal duties and responsibilities between agents and clients. Multiple representation, or dual agency, occurs when a broker represents both the buyer and seller in the same transaction. This concept matters because it involves potential conflicts of interest that could compromise a client's best interests. In Wisconsin, the question focuses specifically on consent requirements for dual agency. The correct answer is B because Wisconsin law mandates written consent from both parties after full disclosure. This requirement protects clients by ensuring they understand the potential conflicts and voluntarily agree to this arrangement. The question is challenging because it tests knowledge of specific state regulations rather than general principles. Many students confuse consent requirements across states, assuming verbal consent might suffice or that no consent is needed in certain circumstances. Understanding this concept connects to broader knowledge about fiduciary duties, disclosure requirements, and state-specific real estate regulations.

Knowledge Background

Essential context and foundational knowledge

Dual agency arises when a real estate broker represents both the buyer and seller in the same transaction, creating a potential conflict of interest. Most states regulate this practice to protect consumers. Wisconsin Administrative Code RE 11.06 specifically addresses dual agency, requiring brokers to obtain written consent from both parties after full written disclosure of the potential conflicts. This regulation exists to ensure transparency and protect clients' interests. The written consent must be obtained before the broker can proceed with representing both parties, and the broker must continue to disclose material facts to both sides throughout the transaction.

Memory Technique
acronym

W.R.I.T.E. - Wisconsin Requires Informed Written consent with Total disclosure and Evidence

Remember this acronym when encountering dual agency questions in Wisconsin. WRITE stands for the key elements: Written consent from both parties, Required by law, Informed disclosure, Total disclosure, and Evidence in writing.

Exam Tip

For Wisconsin dual agency questions, look for the requirement for written consent after disclosure. Remember that verbal consent is never sufficient in Wisconsin for this situation.

Real World Application

How this concept applies in actual real estate practice

Imagine a listing agent showing a property to a buyer who is also interested in the same home. The buyer asks if the agent can represent them. The agent explains Wisconsin's dual agency requirements: they must first disclose potential conflicts to both parties and obtain written consent. The agent provides written disclosure forms to both the seller and buyer, explaining their duties would be limited to facilitating the transaction rather than advocating for either side. After both parties review the disclosures and sign separate consent forms, the agent can proceed with dual agency representation.

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