Question 11

The agent should instruct the seller to issue the check to the agent's broker.

In this situation, the correct action for the agent is to instruct the seller to issue the check to the agent's broker. This is important as it aligns with the standard practices in real estate transactions regarding commission and bonuses.

A) immediately deposit the check in a savings account.

This option is incorrect because the agent should not personally deposit the bonus check. Commission payments and bonuses must go through the broker to ensure compliance with real estate regulations and proper accounting practices.

B) instruct the seller to issue the check to the agent's broker.

This option is correct as it ensures that the bonus check is processed through the broker, maintaining adherence to legal and ethical standards within the real estate industry. By involving the broker, the transaction remains transparent and accountable.

C) cash the check and give the broker a share of the bonus.

This option is incorrect because cashing the check personally would not comply with proper commission handling practices. The broker should receive any bonuses or commission payments directly, rather than through a cash transaction.

D) instruct seller that bonuses should be in the form of an electronic transfer.

While recommending electronic transfers can be a modern practice, this option is not relevant to the current situation. The seller has already issued a check, and the agent's role is to ensure it is directed to the broker rather than changing the method of payment after the fact.

Conclusion

The correct answer, option B, is the most appropriate course of action for the agent as it ensures that the bonus is handled in accordance with real estate regulations by directing it to the broker. The other options either violate standard practices or fail to address the proper handling of the check. Thus, option B stands out as the only acceptable choice in this scenario.