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AgencyFiduciary_dutiesHARD

New Jersey salesperson Victor represents seller Mr. Okafor. During the listing period, Victor's close friend expresses interest in purchasing the property. Victor believes his friend would make a strong buyer. Victor does not disclose his personal relationship to Mr. Okafor before presenting his friend's offer. Which fiduciary duty has Victor most directly violated, and what is the likely regulatory consequence under New Jersey law?

Correct Answer

B) Victor violated the duty of loyalty by failing to disclose a conflict of interest; the NJREC may suspend or revoke his license

Victor's failure to disclose his personal relationship with the prospective buyer to his seller client Mr. Okafor is a direct violation of the fiduciary duty of loyalty. The duty of loyalty requires the agent to place the client's interests above all others, including the agent's personal relationships. A personal relationship with a prospective buyer creates a conflict of interest that must be disclosed to the seller so the seller can make an informed decision about whether to proceed. Under N.J.S.A. 45:15-1 et seq., failing to disclose a conflict of interest is a serious violation that can constitute grounds for disciplinary action by the NJREC, including license suspension or revocation.

Answer Options
A
Victor violated the duty of obedience; the NJREC may require him to retake his licensing exam
B
Victor violated the duty of loyalty by failing to disclose a conflict of interest; the NJREC may suspend or revoke his license
C
Victor violated the duty of reasonable care; the NJREC may require him to complete additional continuing education
D
Victor violated the duty of accounting; the NJREC may impose a fine limited to $500 per violation

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Related Topics & Key Terms

Key Terms:

fiduciary_dutiesloyaltyconflict_of_interestdisclosurenjrec_disciplineseller_agencyexpert_trap

Related Concepts

The extent of power and actions an agent is authorized to perform on behalf of the principal, as defined by the agency agreement.

The fiduciary obligations owed by a listing agent to the seller, including marketing the property, presenting all offers, and protecting the seller's confidential information.

A practice where the agent or brokerage represents only one party in a transaction — either the buyer or the seller, but never both.

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