When must a real estate broker disclose their agency status to the listing licensee?

A real estate broker must disclose their agency status during the initial contact when showing property. This requirement is rooted in the principle of transparency and ensuring that all parties involved in the real estate transaction are fully aware of who represents whom. By disclosing agency status at this stage, buyers and sellers can make informed decisions, understand the nature of the representation, and ask questions regarding the relationship and duties of the broker.

This early disclosure helps to establish trust and promotes ethical dealings between the broker and clients. The emphasis on initial contact is crucial because it sets the tone for the entire interaction—clarifying roles and responsibilities from the very beginning can help prevent misunderstandings later on. In contrast, waiting until later stages, such as the time of an offer or a contract meeting of the minds, may lead to confusion and potential conflicts of interest, thus undermining the integrity of the transaction process.