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Practice Of Real EstateLicense_lawHARD

A broker removes earnest money from the escrow account before the transaction is consummated or terminated. No written agreement of the parties, court order, or other authorized exception exists. Under the Illinois License Act of 2000, which statement is correct?

Correct Answer

C) The removal is impermissible because escrow funds must remain on deposit until the transaction is consummated or terminated, unless an authorized disbursement exception applies.

Under the Illinois License Act of 2000 and IDFPR escrow rules, a broker must keep funds belonging to others in the required escrow account until the transaction is consummated or terminated. Disbursement before that point is only lawful when a specific authorized exception applies — such as a written agreement of all parties, a court order, or a reasonable interpretation of the contract. None of those conditions exist here, making the removal a violation.

Answer Options
A
The removal is permissible if the broker reasonably believes the transaction will close within 30 days.
B
The removal is permissible if the broker intends to return the funds to escrow before the closing date.
C
The removal is impermissible because escrow funds must remain on deposit until the transaction is consummated or terminated, unless an authorized disbursement exception applies.
D
The removal is permissible if both parties have verbally agreed to release the funds, even without a written authorization.

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Related Topics & Key Terms

Key Terms:

difficulty_5disbursementescrow_trust_accounts_and_recordkeepingillinois_statescenariotrust_accounttrust_accounts_iluntil_termination

Related Concepts

In real estate, the distinction between an independent contractor and an employee determines tax treatment, liability, and the level of control a broker may exercise over the agent's daily activities. Most real estate agents operate as independent contractors.

Florida real estate licenses must be renewed biennially, and sales associates have specific post-license education requirements for their first renewal.

License requirements are the mandatory qualifications—including pre-licensing education, examination, and background checks—that a person must satisfy before legally practicing real estate. These requirements are established and enforced by each state's real estate commission.

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