Question 13

A relative who is paid to help sell property must hold a real estate license in Illinois.

In Illinois, individuals who are compensated for assisting in the sale of real estate must possess a valid real estate license. This includes relatives who are involved in the transaction for a fee.

A) an individual owning three properties worth $1,000,000 or more

Owning multiple properties does not necessitate a real estate license in Illinois. Property ownership alone, regardless of value, does not require an individual to hold a license unless they are engaged in the business of selling real estate.

B) a relative who is paid to help sell property

This option is correct because in Illinois, any individual who receives payment for helping to sell real estate, including relatives, must obtain a real estate license. Failing to hold a license while engaging in such activities could result in legal penalties.

C) an attorney in performance of their duties

Attorneys are generally exempt from needing a real estate license when acting within the scope of their legal duties. They can negotiate real estate transactions and provide legal advice without holding a real estate license, as their actions are covered under their professional licensure.

D) the trustee of a land trust

Trustees of land trusts are not required to hold a real estate license in Illinois when they are managing properties within the trust. Their role is typically administrative and fiduciary, not transactional, which does not meet the criteria for requiring a real estate license.

Conclusion

The requirement for a real estate license in Illinois is specifically tied to those who are compensated for real estate transactions. While relatives can assist in property sales, they must be licensed if they receive payment. Other options, such as property ownership without sale activity, legal representation by attorneys, and trustees managing land trusts, do not fall under this requirement. Thus, Option B is the only correct answer.