EstatePass
ContractsPurchase_agreementsMEDIUM

A North Dakota real estate licensee is preparing a purchase agreement for a client buying a property in Williston. The property is located in the Bakken Formation region, and the listing does not mention mineral rights. The licensee knows from reviewing the title commitment that the mineral rights were severed 30 years ago. The licensee's buyer-client has not asked about mineral rights. What is the licensee's obligation under North Dakota law?

Correct Answer

A) The licensee must disclose the mineral rights severance to the buyer-client as a known material fact

Under North Dakota Administrative Code Title 70 and NDCC Chapter 43-23, a licensee representing a buyer owes fiduciary duties including the duty to disclose all known material facts that could affect the buyer's decision. Severed mineral rights in the Bakken Formation region of North Dakota are a material fact — they affect the property's value and the buyer's rights. The licensee's knowledge of the severance from the title commitment creates an affirmative duty to disclose this information to the buyer-client, regardless of whether the buyer specifically asked about mineral rights.

Answer Options
A
The licensee must disclose the mineral rights severance to the buyer-client as a known material fact
B
The licensee has no duty to disclose mineral rights status because the buyer did not ask about it
C
The licensee must report the mineral rights severance to the NDREC before proceeding with the transaction
D
The licensee should only disclose the mineral rights issue if the buyer intends to use the property for oil and gas production

Why This Is the Correct Answer

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Why the Other Options Are Wrong

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Deep Analysis of This Contracts Question

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Background Knowledge for Contracts

Sign up free to unlock full analysis
Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Real World Application in Contracts

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Common Mistakes to Avoid on Contracts Questions

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Related Topics & Key Terms

Key Terms:

mineral_rightsfiduciary_dutydisclosure_obligationbuyer_representationmaterial_fact
Was this explanation helpful?

More Contracts Questions

People Also Study

Contracts Questions

Practice More Questions

Access 2,000+ practice questions and pass your real estate exam.

Start Practicing