What must a sole proprietor independent broker NOT do to avoid being required to be a broker-in-charge?

To avoid being required to be a broker-in-charge, a sole proprietor independent broker must refrain from certain activities that can trigger the need for additional oversight or designation. Handing out business cards promoting oneself as a broker is a straightforward marketing activity that does not inherently involve transaction processes or client representation, therefore it does not necessitate the broker to be categorized under the broker-in-charge requirement.

Business cards serve as promotional tools and are essential for networking and establishing a professional presence. As long as the broker complies with the legal and ethical obligations in their marketing efforts, distributing business cards alone does not engage the regulatory criteria that would make them accountable as a broker-in-charge.

In contrast, receiving commissions, making referrals, or representing a buyer in a sales transaction directly involve activities central to real estate dealings and require a higher level of oversight that a broker-in-charge provides. Engaging in these activities implies a level of operational involvement that falls under regulatory scrutiny, making it necessary for the broker to have a higher designation. Therefore, the activity of handing out business cards does not pose the same compliance issues, making it permissible without triggering the need to be a broker-in-charge.