Oregon Real Estate Practice Test

What should a real estate agent do if the customer requests information outside of their expertise?

1. Provide the information anyway

2. Refuse to assist

3. Advise the principal to seek expert advice

4. Consult a colleague for guidance

The correct answer is: Advise the principal to seek expert advice

When a customer requests information that lies outside a real estate agent's area of expertise, the most prudent action is to advise the principal to seek expert advice. This approach is not only ethical but also protects the agent from unintentionally providing misleading or inaccurate information. Real estate agents are required to have specific knowledge in areas such as property valuation, local market conditions, and transaction processes; however, they are not expected to have expertise in specialized fields such as legal advice, environmental assessments, or financial planning. By guiding the customer to seek assistance from a qualified professional—such as an attorney, financial advisor, or environmental consultant—the agent ensures that the customer receives the most accurate and relevant information for their needs. This also fosters a relationship built on trust and professionalism, demonstrating that the agent prioritizes the client’s best interests rather than attempting to provide answers outside their expertise. This practice of referring clients to experts aligns with the code of ethics that governs real estate professionals, which emphasizes the importance of competence and integrity in client interactions.