In which situation is it appropriate for a broker to act without client knowledge?

A broker’s primary responsibility is to act in the best interests of their client, maintaining transparency and trust throughout the transaction process. In any situation involving real estate dealings, the broker must prioritize the client's interests and seek their explicit consent or knowledge on important decisions and negotiations.

Acting without client knowledge undermines the fiduciary relationship that exists between the broker and the client. The law generally requires brokers to keep their clients informed and obtain their approval for significant actions, thus ensuring that clients are properly represented and their interests protected. Transparency is fundamental in real estate transactions, as it fosters trust and enhances decision-making, both for the broker and the client.

Scenarios such as avoiding delays during negotiations, clients being unavailable for signature, or responding to urgent requests do not justify acting without the client’s knowledge. In these cases, brokers should find ways to communicate with their clients or seek alternative solutions that abide by legal and ethical standards, ensuring that the client is involved and aware of the proceedings. Therefore, the assertion that a broker should never act without client knowledge is consistent with the ethical and legal obligations inherent in the real estate profession.