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Practice Of Real EstateLicense_lawHARD

Robert is a licensed Michigan broker who operates Lakeview Realty. He hires Susan, a licensed salesperson, and tells her she can operate as an 'independent contractor' for tax purposes. A buyer later files a complaint with LARA-BPL alleging that Susan provided negligent advice. Under Michigan law, which of the following best describes Robert's liability?

Correct Answer

B) Robert is liable for Susan's actions because Michigan law makes the employing broker responsible for the licensed activities of affiliated salespersons regardless of tax classification

Under Michigan Occupational Code Act 299 of 1980 (MCL 339.2501 et seq.), a broker is responsible for the licensed real estate activities of all salespersons and associate brokers affiliated with the brokerage. This statutory responsibility exists regardless of how the parties characterize their relationship for tax purposes (i.e., independent contractor vs. employee). The IRS classification affects tax treatment only — it does not alter the broker's supervisory responsibility and liability under Michigan real estate license law.

Answer Options
A
Robert has no liability because Susan is classified as an independent contractor, not an employee
B
Robert is liable for Susan's actions because Michigan law makes the employing broker responsible for the licensed activities of affiliated salespersons regardless of tax classification
C
Robert's liability depends on whether Susan signed an independent contractor agreement before the transaction occurred
D
Robert is liable only if LARA-BPL can prove he was aware of Susan's negligent conduct at the time it occurred

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Related Topics & Key Terms

Key Terms:

license_categoriesbroker_liabilityindependent_contractorsupervisionact_299LARA_BPL

Related Concepts

Florida brokers are required to maintain transaction records and escrow records for a minimum of five years.

A tie-in arrangement is an illegal antitrust practice in which a seller conditions the purchase of one product or service on the buyer's agreement to purchase a separate product or service.

A trust account, also called an escrow account, is a separate bank account maintained by a broker to hold funds belonging to others, such as earnest money deposits, security deposits, or other client funds.

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