60. A Missouri licensee is driving a potential buyer to a listed property when the buyer sees a house "For Sale by Owner." The buyer asks the licensee to stop and ask the sellers to show the house. The licensee should
Answer: C
The licensee should inform the buyer that written authorization must be obtained from the seller before showing the property.
In this scenario, the licensee must adhere to legal and ethical standards, which require obtaining written authorization from the seller before showing their property. This protects the seller's rights and ensures that the licensee is acting within the bounds of real estate regulations.
A) stop and ask permission of the seller to view the house.
While stopping to ask the seller for permission may seem like a straightforward approach, it does not comply with the requirement for written authorization. The licensee cannot simply approach the seller without prior arrangement or authorization, as this could lead to misunderstandings and potential legal issues.
B) have his broker call to arrange a showing.
Having the broker call to arrange a showing could be a valid option; however, it still necessitates that written authorization from the seller is obtained first. Without this authorization, the broker's efforts may be in vain, and the licensee would still be acting outside of the proper protocol.
C) inform the buyer that written authorization must be obtained from the seller before showing the property.
This option is correct because it aligns with the legal requirements of real estate transactions. The licensee must ensure that they have the seller's permission, in writing, before proceeding to show the property, thereby protecting both the seller's interests and the licensee's professional responsibilities.
D) Inform the buyer that he may not show an owner-listed home unless the buyer agrees to pay the licensee a fee.
This option is not correct as it misrepresents the licensee's obligations. While a fee arrangement can be discussed, it does not negate the necessity of obtaining written authorization from the seller to view the property. This response could also mislead the buyer regarding the nature of the seller's listing.
Conclusion
The correct answer is option C, as it accurately reflects the legal requirements for showing a property listed by the owner. All other options fail to recognize the necessity of obtaining written authorization, placing the licensee at risk of violating real estate laws and ethical standards. Thus, understanding proper protocols is crucial for maintaining professionalism in real estate transactions.