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AgencyDisclosure_requirementsHARD

Agent Donna listed a property for seller client Ed. During the listing period, buyer client Fran (represented by agent Gary from a completely separate brokerage) made an offer. The offer was accepted and the parties are now under contract. Two weeks later, Gary's license is suspended by MREC. Fran contacts Donna directly and asks Donna to help her navigate the remaining steps to closing. If Donna assists Fran without a new written agency agreement, which Maryland-specific agency problem is MOST likely to arise?

Correct Answer

D) Donna risks creating an undisclosed dual agency situation by assisting the buyer while remaining the seller's agent, without written dual agency consent from both Ed and Fran

Donna remains the seller's (Ed's) agent. If she begins substantively assisting Fran—a buyer—without a proper dual agency consent framework, she risks creating an undisclosed dual agency situation. Maryland law requires written informed consent from both parties before a dual agency situation arises. Assisting the buyer while representing the seller, without that written consent, violates Maryland's dual agency disclosure requirements and could expose Donna to disciplinary action by MREC.

Answer Options
A
Donna must immediately terminate the listing agreement with Ed before she can provide any assistance to Fran
B
Donna would automatically become Fran's buyer's agent by operation of law, creating a subagency relationship with Gary's suspended brokerage
C
Donna may freely assist Fran as a transaction facilitator without any agency disclosure, since the contract is already executed
D
Donna risks creating an undisclosed dual agency situation by assisting the buyer while remaining the seller's agent, without written dual agency consent from both Ed and Fran

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Related Topics & Key Terms

Key Terms:

dual_agencyundisclosed_dual_agencylicense_suspensionseller_agentexpert_trap

Related Concepts

An arrangement where a brokerage assigns separate agents within the firm to represent the buyer and seller in the same transaction, allowing each client to have dedicated representation.

A situation where a single agent or brokerage represents both the buyer and the seller in the same real estate transaction.

An agency relationship created by a clear, explicit agreement between the principal and agent, either orally or in writing.

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