Question 21

A broker who assists a buyer in a contemplated real estate transaction without being an advocate for the interests of the buyer is acting as a transaction-broker.

A transaction-broker facilitates a real estate transaction by assisting both the buyer and seller without representing either party's interests exclusively. This role involves providing necessary services without the fiduciary duties associated with a buyer's agent.

A) Limited broker

A limited broker typically refers to a broker who has restricted powers in terms of representation and services provided, but this term does not accurately describe a broker who assists without advocating for a buyer's interests. Thus, this option is incorrect.

B) Buyers agent

A buyer's agent represents the interests of the buyer in a real estate transaction, which is contrary to the role described in the question. Therefore, this option is also incorrect.

C) Designated agent

A designated agent represents the interests of a specific client within a brokerage, often advocating for that client's needs. This does not align with the neutral position of assisting without taking sides, making this option incorrect.

D) Transaction-broker

A transaction-broker assists in the real estate transaction process without advocating for either party's interests, making this option the correct choice. This role is defined by its lack of fiduciary responsibility toward one party, which is precisely what the question describes.

Conclusion

The transaction-broker role is characterized by neutrality and support in the real estate transaction without advocating for the buyer. In contrast, all other options involve some level of representation or advocacy, which does not fit the scenario outlined in the question. Thus, the correct answer is clearly D, as it accurately reflects the responsibilities of a broker in the described context.