Oregon Broker PSI Practice Exam

What is a potential liability for an unlicensed personal assistant?

1. Receiving a bonus

2. A civil fine by the real estate commissioner

3. Being hired as a licensed agent

4. Reputational risk only

The correct answer is: A civil fine by the real estate commissioner

An unlicensed personal assistant can face a civil fine by the real estate commissioner for engaging in activities that require a real estate license. Real estate laws are designed to protect the public by ensuring that only qualified individuals conduct certain tasks, such as negotiating, presenting offers, or managing clients. If an unlicensed personal assistant performs these tasks, they can be deemed to be practicing real estate without a license, leading to potential fines and disciplinary actions. This regulatory oversight reflects the importance of licensing in maintaining professional standards and consumer protection in real estate transactions. While receiving a bonus, being hired as a licensed agent, or facing reputational risk may pose concerns in different contexts, they do not directly relate to regulatory compliance and the legal implications of performing licensed activities without the necessary qualifications. Therefore, the most direct and significant liability in this context comes from the potential civil fines imposed by the real estate commissioner.