Question 91

A licensee may use the term 'REALTOR' or 'REALTOR ASSOCIATE' ONLY if the licensee is a member of the National Association of REALTORS.

To use the terms 'REALTOR' or 'REALTOR ASSOCIATE', a licensee must be a member of the National Association of REALTORS, as this designation is specifically reserved for those who are part of this professional organization.

A) duly licensed by the state real estate commission

While being duly licensed by the state real estate commission is necessary for any real estate professional, it does not grant the right to use the terms 'REALTOR' or 'REALTOR ASSOCIATE'. These terms are exclusive to members of the National Association of REALTORS, making this option incorrect in the context of the question.

B) a member of the National Association of REALTORS

This option is correct because the use of the terms 'REALTOR' and 'REALTOR ASSOCIATE' is specifically linked to membership in the National Association of REALTORS. Only those who have joined this organization can legally and ethically use these designations in their professional practice.

C) an owner and a manager of a real estate company

Being an owner and manager of a real estate company does not automatically qualify an individual to use the terms 'REALTOR' or 'REALTOR ASSOCIATE'. Membership in the National Association of REALTORS is the key requirement, making this option incorrect.

D) a member of a national franchise

Membership in a national franchise does not equate to membership in the National Association of REALTORS. While franchises may have their own brand recognition, they do not provide the specific authorization needed to use the terms 'REALTOR' or 'REALTOR ASSOCIATE', rendering this option incorrect.

Conclusion

The designation 'REALTOR' or 'REALTOR ASSOCIATE' is strictly tied to membership in the National Association of REALTORS, making option B the only correct answer. Other options, while relevant to real estate practice, do not fulfill the specific requirement needed to use these terms. Thus, only a member of the National Association of REALTORS can appropriately claim these designations.