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Elena, a licensed real estate salesperson in Massachusetts, is representing the seller of a single-family home in Newton. A buyer submits a written offer. Before Elena can present the offer to the seller, the seller calls Elena and says, 'Don't bother — I've decided not to sell.' Under Massachusetts law and BORREBS regulations, what must Elena do?

Correct Answer

B) Elena must present the offer to the seller promptly, as licensees are required to present all written offers regardless of seller instructions

Under Massachusetts BORREBS regulations and the fiduciary duties owed to the seller as the client, a listing agent is obligated to present all written offers to the seller promptly. A seller may instruct a licensee in advance not to present offers below a certain price, but a blanket oral statement that the seller no longer wants to sell does not relieve the licensee of the duty to present a written offer already received. Failing to present a written offer is a violation of the licensee's duties and could constitute grounds for disciplinary action under MGL Chapter 112.

Answer Options
A
Elena may discard the offer because the seller has indicated they no longer wish to sell the property
B
Elena must present the offer to the seller promptly, as licensees are required to present all written offers regardless of seller instructions
C
Elena must present the offer only if it meets a minimum price threshold set by the listing agreement
D
Elena may hold the offer and present it only if the seller changes their mind within 24 hours

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Related Topics & Key Terms

Key Terms:

duty_to_present_offersfiduciary_dutylisting_agentBORREBSMGL_112offer_and_acceptance

Related Concepts

Equitable title is the buyer's interest in a property after a purchase contract is signed but before closing, giving the buyer the right to acquire legal title in the future. The seller retains legal title until the deed is delivered at closing.

A financing contingency makes the purchase contract conditional upon the buyer obtaining mortgage approval within a specified time period. If the buyer cannot secure financing, they can cancel the contract and receive their earnest money back.

An inspection contingency gives the buyer the right to have the property professionally inspected within a specified time frame and to negotiate repairs or cancel the contract based on the findings.

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