Law requires brokers deposit funds no later than:
Audio Lesson
Duration: 2:35
Question & Answer
Review the question and all answer choices
the 5th business day
A is incorrect because 5 business days is too short a timeframe for Maryland brokers. While some states may have shorter requirements, Maryland specifically mandates a 7-business-day period.
the 7th business day
the 14th business day
C is incorrect because 14 business days exceeds Maryland's requirement. While brokers might sometimes take longer to close transactions, funds must be deposited within the 7-business-day window regardless.
the 21st business day
D is incorrect because 21 business days is significantly longer than Maryland's requirement. This timeframe might apply to other aspects of real estate transactions but not to fund deposit requirements.
Why is this correct?
B is correct because Maryland law specifically requires brokers to deposit client funds into their trust account within 7 business days of receipt. This timeframe provides a reasonable period for processing while ensuring client funds are protected.
Deep Analysis
AI-powered in-depth explanation of this concept
This question tests your knowledge of broker trust account requirements in Maryland. Understanding when brokers must deposit client funds is crucial because it directly affects consumer protection and regulatory compliance. The question focuses on the specific timeframe mandated by Maryland law for depositing funds into a broker's trust account. This concept matters because failure to properly handle client funds can lead to serious consequences, including license suspension or revocation. The correct answer requires knowing that Maryland law requires brokers to deposit funds no later than the 7th business day after receipt. This timeframe is designed to protect clients' money while still allowing brokers reasonable time to process transactions. The question is challenging because it requires precise knowledge of Maryland-specific regulations rather than general real estate principles. Additionally, the options include various timeframes that might be confused with other states' requirements or different types of transactions.
Knowledge Background
Essential context and foundational knowledge
Broker trust accounts, also known as escrow or client trust accounts, are specialized bank accounts that brokers must use to hold client funds. These accounts are separate from the broker's business accounts and are subject to strict regulatory requirements. Maryland, like all states, has specific laws governing how brokers must handle client funds. The 7-business-day deposit requirement is designed to protect consumers by ensuring their money isn't commingled with the broker's operating funds and is promptly accounted for. This requirement is part of broader real estate regulations that aim to prevent fraud and ensure proper handling of client funds throughout the transaction process.
Seven days is the rule, deposit funds before the week-end's cool
Recite this rhyme when you see questions about deposit timeframes. The number seven is key to remembering the 7-business-day requirement.
For deposit timeframe questions, remember Maryland's 7-business-day rule. When you see options with different timeframes, 7 days is the Maryland standard, while other states may vary.
Real World Application
How this concept applies in actual real estate practice
Imagine you're a Maryland broker who just received a $50,000 earnest money deposit from a buyer for a property settlement scheduled to close in 30 days. According to Maryland law, you must deposit these funds into your trust account within 7 business days, not hold them in your office safe or personal account. If you delay depositing these funds beyond the 7-business-day window, you could face disciplinary action from the Maryland Real Commission, even if the transaction ultimately closes successfully. This requirement protects clients by ensuring their funds are properly accounted for and segregated from your business operations.
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