![]()
Subchapter E. STANDARDS OF CONDUCT AND PRACTICE
GENERAL ETHICAL RESPONSIBILITIES Sec.
35.281. Putting contracts, commitments and agreements in writing.
35.282. Misleading advice, assurances and representations.
35.283. Disclosure of interest.
35.284. Disclosures of business relationships.
35.285. Disclosure of real estate affiliations.
35.286. Retention and production of records.
35.287. Supervised property management assistance by salespersons.
35.288. Duties when selling or leasing own real estate.
35.289. Valid list of rentals.
35.290. Reporting of crimes and disciplinary actions.
35.291. Posting of suspension notice.
35.292. Duties of licensees generally.
ADVERTISING AND SOLICITATION
35.301. Unauthorized advertising and solicitation.
35.302. Harassment.
35.303. Panic selling.
35.304. Disclosure of licensure when advertising own real estate.
35.305. Business name on advertisements.
35.306. Advertisements of lotteries, contests, prizes, certificates, gifts and lots.
35.307. Advertisements of sales volume, market position and numbers of offices.
35.308. Relationship with educational institution.
PERMITTED RELATIONSHIPS
35.311. Generally.
35.312. Duties of sellers agent.
35.313. Duties of buyers agent.
35.314. Duties of dual agent.
35.315. Duties of designated agent.
35.316. Duties of transaction licensee.
ESCROW REQUIREMENTS
35.321. Duty to deposit money belonging to another into escrow account.
35.322. Nonwaiver of escrow duty.
35.323. Responsibility for escrow in cobrokerage transactions.
35.324. Deadline for depositing money into escrow account.
35.325. Escrow account.
35.326. Prohibition against commingling or misappropriation.
35.327. Procedure when entitlement to money held in escrow is disputed.
35.328. Escrow records.
REAL ESTATE DOCUMENTS
35.331. Listing agreements generally.
35.332. Exclusive listing agreements.
35.333. Agreements of sale.
35.334. Statements of estimated cost and return.
35.335. Rental listing referral agreements.
35.336. Disclosure summary for the purchase or sale of residential or commercial real estate or for the lease of residential or commercial real estate when the licensee is working on behalf of the tenant.
35.337. Disclosure summary for the lease of residential or commercial real estate when the licensee is working on behalf of the owner.
35.338. Disclosure summary for time-share estates.
35.339. Oral disclosure.
35.340. Comparative market analysis.
Cross References This subchapter cited in 49 Pa. Code § 35.384 (relating to qualifying courses).
GENERAL ETHICAL RESPONSIBILITIES
§ 35.281. Putting contracts, commitments and agreements in writing.
(a) All contracts, commitments and agreements between a broker, or a licensee employed by the broker, and a principal or a consumer who is required to pay a fee, commission or other valuable consideration shall be in writing and contain the information specified in § 35.331 (relating to written agreements generally).
(b) The following are exceptions to subsection (a):
(1) Open listing agreements or nonexclusive buyer agency agreements may be oral if the seller/buyer or landlord/tenant is provided with a written memorandum stating the terms of the agreement.
(2) Transaction licensees or subagents cooperating with listing brokers are not required to obtain a written agreement from the seller/landlord.
(3) Transaction licensees or subagents who provide services to the buyer/tenant but are paid by the seller/landlord or listing broker shall provide, and have signed, a written disclosure statement describing the nature of the services to be performed and containing the information required by section 608 of the act (63 P. S. § 455.608).
(c) A licensee may perform services before an agreement is signed, but the licensee is not entitled to recover a fee, commission or other valuable consideration in the absence of a signed agreement.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.281 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902); amended under sections 404, 602, 606606.6 and 608608.3 of the Real Estate Licensing Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.404, 455.602, 455.606455.606f and 455.608455.608c).
Source The provisions of this § 35.281 adopted February 24, 1989, effective February 25, 1989, 19 Pa.B. 781; amended November 17, 2000, effective November 18, 2000, 30 Pa.B. 5954; amended March 29, 2002, effective March 30, 2002, 32 Pa.B. 1644. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (271735).
Cross References This section cited in 49 Pa. Code § 35.286 (relating to retention and production of records).
§ 35.282. Misleading advice, assurances and representations.
(a) A licensee may not give assurances or advice concerning an aspect of a real estate transaction that he knows, or reasonably should be expected to know, is incorrect, inaccurate or improbable.
(b) A licensee may not knowingly be a party to a material false or inaccurate representation in a writing regarding a real estate transaction in which he is acting in a representative capacity.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.282 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902).
Source The provisions of this § 35.283 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902); amended under sections 404, 606606.6 and 608608.3 of the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.404, 455.606455.606f and 455.608455.608c).
Source The provisions of this § 35.283 adopted February 24, 1989, effective February 25, 1989, 19 Pa.B. 781; amended March 29, 2002, effective March 30, 2002, 32 Pa.B. 1644. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (271736).
Cross References The provisions of this § 35.284 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902); amended under sections 404, 606606.6 and 608608.3 of the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.404, 455.606455.606f and 455.608455.608c).
Source The provisions of this § 35.284 adopted February 24, 1989, effective February 25, 1989, 19 Pa.B. 781; amended June 10, 1994, effective June 11, 1994, 24 Pa.B. 2904; amended March 29, 2002, effective March 30, 2002, 32 Pa.B. 1644; amended May 18, 2007, effective May 19, 2007, 37 Pa.B. 2291. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (287889) to (287890).
§ 35.285. Disclosure of real estate affiliations.
A licensee shall provide to the Commission or its representatives upon proper demand information regarding a franchisor, network or other parent real estate company with which the licensee is, or may become, affiliated.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.285 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902).
Source The provisions of this § 35.285 adopted February 24, 1989, effective February 25, 1989, 19 Pa.B. 781.
Cross References The provisions of this § 35.286 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902); amended under sections 404, 606606.6 and 608608.3 of the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.404, 455.606455.606f and 455.608455.608c).
Source The provisions of this § 35.286 adopted February 24, 1989, effective February 25, 1989, 19 Pa.B. 781; amended June 10, 1994, effective June 11, 1994, 24 Pa.B. 2904; amended March 29, 2002, effective March 30, 2002, 32 Pa.B. 1644. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (271737) to (271738).
Cross References This section cited in 49 Pa. Code § 35.284 (relating to disclosures of business relationships); and 49 Pa. Code § 43b.8 (relating to schedule of civil penaltiesreal estate and cemetery brokers, real estate schools).
§ 35.287. Supervised property management assistance by salespersons.
A salesperson may assist in property management if the salespersons work is supervised and controlled by the employing broker. The salesperson may not independently negotiate the terms of a lease nor execute a lease on behalf of the lessor.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.287 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902); amended under sections 404, 606606.6 and 608608.3 of the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.404, 455.606455.606f and 455.608455.608c).
Source The provisions of this § 35.287 adopted February 24, 1989, effective February 25, 1989, 19 Pa.B. 781; amended November 17, 2000, effective November 18, 2000, 30 Pa.B. 5954; amended March 29, 2002, effective March 30, 2002, 32 Pa.B. 1644. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (271738).
§ 35.288. Duties when selling or leasing own real estate.
(a) A broker or salesperson who sells or leases his own real estate shall comply with the requirements of the act and this chapter.
(b) A broker or salesperson who is selling or leasing his own real estate shall disclose his licensed status to a prospective buyer or lessee before the buyer or lessee enters into an agreement of sale or lease. See § 35.304 (relating to disclosure of licensure when advertising own real estate).
Authority The provisions of this § 35.288 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902).
Source The provisions of this § 35.288 adopted February 24, 1989, effective February 25, 1989, 19 Pa.B. 781.
§ 35.289. Valid list of rentals.
The list of rental units that a rental listing referral agent gives to a prospective tenant shall meet the desired specifications sought by the prospective tenant as set forth in the rental listing agreement. The rental listing referral agent shall verify the availability of the rental units no more than 4 days prior to the date the agent collects a fee from the prospective tenant.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.289 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902).
Source The provisions of this § 35.289 adopted February 24, 1989, effective February 25, 1989, 19 Pa.B. 781.
§ 35.290. Reporting of crimes and disciplinary actions.
(a) A licensee shall notify the Commission of being convicted of, or pleading guilty or nolo contendere to, a felony or misdemeanor, within 30 days of the verdict or plea.
(b) A licensee shall notify the Commission of disciplinary action taken against him by the real estate licensing authority of another jurisdiction within 30 days of receiving notice of the disciplinary action.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.290 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902).
Source The provisions of this § 35.290 adopted February 24, 1989, effective February 25, 1989, 19 Pa.B. 781.
Cross References This section cited in 49 Pa. Code § 43b.8 (relating to schedule of civil penaltiesreal estate and cemetery brokers, real estate schools).
§ 35.291. Posting of suspension notice.
A broker or cemetery broker whose license is suspended by the Commission shall return his license to the Commission and shall post a notice of the Commissions action at the main office and at branch offices. The notice, which will be provided by the Commission, shall be posted prominently on or near the public entrance to each office. Failure to post the notice constitutes grounds for further disciplinary action by the Commission.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.291 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902).
Source The provisions of this § 35.291 adopted February 24, 1989, effective February 25, 1989, 19 Pa.B. 781; amended June 10, 1994, effective June 11, 1994, 24 Pa.B. 2904. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (135759) to (135760).
§ 35.292. Duties of licensees generally.
(a) The following duties are owed to all consumers of real estate services and may not be waived:
(1) Exercise reasonable professional skill and care.
(2) Deal honestly and in good faith.
(3) Present, in a reasonably practicable period of time, all offers, counteroffers, notices and communications to and from the parties in writing, unless the property is subject to an existing contract and the seller/landlord has agreed in a written waiver.
(4) Comply with 68 Pa.C.S. Chapter 73 (relating to Real Estate Seller Disclosure Law).
(5) Account for escrow and deposits funds as required by section 604(a)(5) of the act (63 P. S. § 455.604(a)(5)) and § § 35.32135.328 (relating to escrow requirements).
(6) Provide consumers with the information in section 608 of the act (63 P. S. § 455.608) at the initial interview.
(7) Disclose, in a reasonably practicable period of time, all conflicts of interest and financial interests as required in § 35.283 (relating to disclosure of interest).
(8) Advise the consumer to seek expert advice on matters about the transaction that are beyond the licensees expertise.
(9) Ensure that all services are provided in a reasonable, professional and competent manner.
(10) Keep the consumer informed about the transaction and the tasks to be completed.
(11) Provide assistance with document preparation.
(12) Advise the consumer about compliance with laws pertaining to real estate transactions without rendering legal advice.
(b) A licensee is not required to conduct an independent inspection of the property.
(c) A licensee is not required to independently verify the accuracy or completeness of any representation made by the consumer to a transaction which the licensee reasonably believes to be accurate and reliable.
(d) A licensee is not liable for the acts of a consumer unless the consumer is acting at the express direction of the licensee or as a result of a representation by a licensee reasonably relied on by the consumer.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.292 issued under sections 404, 606606.6 and 608608.3 of the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.404, 455.606455.606f and 455.608455.608c).
Source The provisions of this § 35.292 adopted March 29, 2002, effective March 30, 2002, 32 Pa.B. 1644.
Cross References This section cited in 49 Pa. Code § 35.311 (relating to generally); 49 Pa. Code § 35.313 (relating to duties of buyers agent); 49 Pa. Code § 35.315 (relating to duties of designated agent); 49 Pa. Code § 35.316 (relating to duties of transaction licensee); and 49 Pa. Code § 43b.8 (relating to schedule of civil penaltiesreal estate and cemetery brokers, real estate schools).
ADVERTISING AND SOLICITATION
§ 35.301. Unauthorized advertising and solicitation.
(a) A licensee may not advertise the sale or lease of real estate, or otherwise solicit prospective buyers or tenants for the real estate, without the authority of the seller or lessor or of the agent of the seller or lessor.
(b) A rental listing referral agent may not publish information about a rental property if the lessor or property manager expressly states that the property is not to be included in lists prepared by rental listing referral agents.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.301 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902).
Source The provisions of this § 35.301 adopted February 24, 1989, effective February 25, 1989, 19 Pa.B. 781.
Cross References This section cited in 49 Pa. Code § 43b.8 (relating to schedule of civil penaltiesreal estate and cemetery brokers, real estate schools).
§ 35.302. Harassment.
A licensee, whether acting on behalf of a prospective buyer or not, may not solicitby personal contact, telephone, mail or advertisingthe sale or other disposition of real estate with such frequency as to amount to clear harassment of the owner or other person who controls the sale or disposition of the real estate.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.302 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902).
Source The provisions of this § 35.302 adopted February 24, 1989, effective February 25, 1989, 19 Pa.B. 781.
§ 35.303. Panic selling.
(a) The Commission will regard an attempt by a licensee to bring about panic selling in order to profit from it as bad faith under section 604(a)(20) of the act (63 P. S. § 455.604(a)(20)). For purposes of this section, panic selling is frequent efforts to sell residential real estate in a particular neighborhood because of fear of declining real estate values when the fear is not based on facts relating to the intrinsic value of the real estate itself.
(b) Proof of systematic solicitation of sales listings may be considered sufficient, but not conclusive, evidence of an attempt to bring about panic selling.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.303 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902).
Source The provisions of this § 35.303 adopted February 24, 1989, effective February 25, 1989, 19 Pa.B. 781.
§ 35.304. Disclosure of licensure when advertising own real estate.
A licensee who sells or leases his own real estate shall disclose that he is a real estate licensee in advertisements for the property. This requirement does not apply if the property is listed with a real estate company.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.304 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902); amended under sections 404 and 602 of the Real Estate Licensing Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.404 and 455.602).
Source The provisions of this § 35.304 adopted February 24, 1989, effective February 25, 1989, 19 Pa.B. 781; amended November 17, 2000, effective November 18, 2000, 30 Pa.B. 5954. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (256781).
Cross References This section cited in 49 Pa. Code § 35.288 (relating to duties when selling or leasing own real estate); and 49 Pa. Code § 43b.8 (relating to schedule of civil penaltiesreal estate and cemetery brokers, real estate schools).
§ 35.305. Business name on advertisements.
(a) Brokerage companies, including sole proprietorships, cemetery companies and rental listing referral agencies shall advertise or otherwise hold themselves out to the public only under the business name designated on their license.
(b) Licensees who wish to use and advertise a nickname for their first names shall include the nickname on their licensure applications or biennial renewal applications.
(c) An advertisement by an associate broker, salesperson, cemetery associate broker or cemetery salesperson shall contain the business name and telephone number of the employing broker. The names and telephone numbers shall be of equal size.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.305 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902); amended under sections 201, 404, 501, 601, 602 and 604 of the Real Estate Licensing Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.201, 455.404, 455.501, 455.601, 455.602 and 455.604).
Source The provisions of this § 35.305 adopted February 24, 1989, effective February 25, 1989, 19 Pa.B. 781; amended June 10, 1994, effective June 11, 1994, 24 Pa.B. 2904; amended November 17, 2000, effective November 18, 2000, 30 Pa.B. 5954; amended August 19, 2005, effective August 20, 2005, 35 Pa.B. 4711. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (287896) to (287897).
Notes of Decisions Employing Broker Information
Several real estate salespersons and associate brokers violated the regulation requiring them to list the business name and telephone number of their employing broker in advertisements, where the advertisements each contained the name of the employing broker and one telephone number, which, although purchased by the employing broker, provides a direct connection to the salesperson or associate broker featured in the advertisement, and where directory assistance provides a different number appearing in none of the advertisements for the employing broker. Campo v. State Real Estate Commission, 723 A.2d 260 (Pa. Cmwlth. 1998).
An advertisement failed to meet the requirements of subsection (b) where telephone numbers, owned and maintained by the employing broker but assigned to various salespeople to answer, were displayed in the advertisement, and the numbers provided in the advertisements did not match the telephone numbers given by directory assistance for the employing broker. DAlonzo v. State Real Estate Commission, 702 A.2d 1102 (Pa. Cmwlth. 1997).
Validity
The court found ample authority in the Real Estate Licensing and Regulation Act for the State Real Estate Commissions promulgation of a regulation requiring the employing brokers telephone number in advertisements, where employing brokers are required to supervise employed salespersons and associate brokers, and misleading advertisements are forbidden; the regulation advances the twin aims of employe supervision and prevention of public misconception by providing the public with unfettered access to the employes supervisor, and it also prevents the public from mistakenly believing that the salesperson or associate broker is self-employed. Campo v. State Real Estate Commission, 723 A.2d 260 (Pa. Cmwlth. 1998).
Cross References The provisions of this § 35.306 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902).
Source The provisions of this § 35.306 adopted February 24, 1989, effective February 25, 1989, 19 Pa.B. 781.
§ 35.307. Advertisements of sales volume, market position and numbers of offices.
(a) An advertisement by a broker about sales volume or production shall refer only to closed transactions. For purpose of this subsection, a closed transaction is either a listing sold or a sale made after a fully executed deed is delivered.
(b) An advertisement by a broker about his production or position in the market shall identify the municipality that the market comprises.
(c) An advertisement by a broker about the number of offices that he operates shall refer only to those offices that have been issued branch office licenses by the Commission.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.307 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902).
Source The provisions of this § 35.307 adopted February 24, 1989, effective February 25, 1989, 19 Pa.B. 781.
§ 35.308. Relationship with educational institution.
A real estate company, franchise or network may promote, endorse, or advertise its association, affiliation or connection with a real estate school or with a college, university or institute of higher learning regarding its offering of real estate instruction. An association, affiliation or connection which includes an ownership interest shall be disclosed in all promotions, endorsements or advertisements. For purposes of this section, an ownership interest will be considered by the Commission to include proprietary or beneficial interests through which the real estate company, franchise or network earns or has the potential to earn income, or which produces a direct or indirect economic benefit.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.308 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902); amended under sections 404 and 602 of the Real Estate Licensing Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.404 and 455.602).
Source The provisions of this § 35.308 adopted June 10, 1994, effective June 11, 1994, 24 Pa.B. 2904; amended November 17, 2000, effective November 18, 2000, 30 Pa.B. 5954. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (201871).
PERMITTED RELATIONSHIPS
§ 35.311. Generally.
(a) A licensee and a consumer may enter into the relationship specified in sections 606.2606.4 and 606.6 of the act (63 P.S. § § 455.606455.606d and 455.606f).
(b) A broker may not extend or delegate the brokers agency relationship without the written consent of the principal.
(c) Compensation paid by a broker to another broker who assists in the marketing and sale/lease of a consumers property does not create an agency relationship between the consumer and that other broker.
(d) A licensee in an agency relationship may not knowingly, during or following the termination of an agency relationship, reveal or use confidential information of the principal, except when one or more of the following apply:
(1) The principal consented to the disclosure.
(2) The information is disclosed to another licensee or third party acting solely on behalf of the principal.
(3) The information is required to be disclosed under subpoena or court order.
(4) The disclosure is necessary to prevent the principal from committing a crime.
(5) The information is used by the licensee to defend in a legal proceeding against an accusation of wrongdoing.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.311 issued under sections 404, 606606.6 and 608608.3 of the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.404, 455.606455.606f and 455.608455.608c).
Source The provisions of this § 35.312 issued under sections 404, 606606.6 and 608608.3 of the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.404, 455.606455.606f and 455.608455.608c).
Source The provisions of this § 35.313 issued under sections 404, 606606.6 and 608608.3 of the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.404, 455.606455.606f and 455.608455.608c).
Source The provisions of this § 35.314 issued under sections 404, 606606.6 and 608608.3 of the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.404, 455.606455.606f and 455.608455.608c).
Source The provisions of this § 35.314 adopted March 29, 2002, effective March 30, 2002, 32 Pa.B. 1644.
Cross References The provisions of this § 35.315 issued under sections 404, 606606.6 and 608608.3 of the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.404, 455.606455.606f and 455.608455.608c).
Source The provisions of this § 35.315 adopted March 29, 2002, effective March 30, 2002, 32 Pa.B. 1644.
Cross References This section cited in 49 Pa. Code § 35.312 (relating to duties of sellers agent); and 49 Pa. Code § 35.313 (relating to duties of buyers agent).
§ 35.316. Duties of transaction licensee.
In addition to the duties required in § 35.292 (relating to duties of licensees generally), a transaction licensee shall advise the consumer that the licensee:
(1) Is not acting as an agent or advocate for the consumer and should not be provided with confidential information.
(2) Owes the additional duty of limited confidentiality in that the following information may not be disclosed:
(i) The seller/landlord will accept a price less than the asking/listing price.
(ii) The buyer/tenant will pay a price greater than the price submitted in a written offer.
(iii) The seller/landlord or buyer/tenant will agree to financing terms other than those offered.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.316 issued under sections 404, 606606.6 and 608608.3 of the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.404, 455.606455.606f and 455.608455.608c).
Source The provisions of this § 35.316 adopted March 29, 2002, effective March 30, 2002, 32 Pa.B. 1644.
ESCROW REQUIREMENTS
§ 35.321. Duty to deposit money belonging to another into escrow account.
(a) Except as provided in subsection (b), a broker shall deposit money that the broker receives belonging to another into an escrow account in a Federally or State-insured bank or depository to be held pending consummation of the transaction or a prior termination thereof that does not involve a dispute between the parties to the transaction, at which time the broker shall pay over the full amount to the party entitled to receive it. If a broker is a partnership, association or corporation, its broker of record shall be responsible for ensuring that the escrow duty is performed.
(b) A broker is not required to hold in escrow rents that he receives as a property manager for a lessor. A broker shall deposit rents received into a rental management account that is separate from the brokers escrow and general business accounts.
(c) If a broker receives money belonging to another under an installment land purchase agreement, the transaction shall be considered consummated, for purposes of subsection (a), when the buyer has been afforded the opportunity, by means of the sellers written acknowledgement on or affixed to the agreement, to record the agreement, unless the agreement specifies otherwise.
(d) If a broker receives money belonging to another under an agreement of sale involving cemetary property, the transaction shall be considered consummated, for purposes of subsection (a), when the buyer receives a copy of the agreement of sale.
(e) If a broker receives a security deposit belonging to another under a lease agreement, the brokers duty to pay over the deposit for purposes of subsection (a), shall arise when the tenancy ends. If a sale of the leased premises or a change in a property management contract occurs during the term of the tenancy, the broker may transfer the security deposit from the brokers escrow account to the escrow account of the lessor or the lessors broker upon notification in writing to each tenant from whom the broker received a deposit of the name and address of the banking institution in which the deposits will be held, and the amount of the deposits.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.321 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902); amended under sections 404 and 602 of the Real Estate Licensing Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.404 and 455.602).
Source The provisions of this § 35.321 adopted February 24, 1989, effective February 25, 1989, 19 Pa.B. 781; amended November 17, 2000, effective November 18, 2000, 30 Pa.B. 5954. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (201871) to (201872).
§ 35.322. Nonwaiver of escrow duty.
A brokers escrow duty may not be waived or altered by an agreement between the parties to the transaction, between the broker and the parties, or between the broker and other brokers who may be involved in the transaction.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.322 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902).
Source The provisions of this § 35.323 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902).
Source The provisions of this § 35.323 adopted February 24, 1989, effective February 25, 1989, 19 Pa.B. 781.
§ 35.324. Deadline for depositing money into escrow account.
(a) Except as provided in subsection (b), a broker shall deposit money belonging to another into an escrow account by the end of the next business day following its receipt in the real estate office where the escrow records are maintained.
(b) If the money of another has been tendered to the broker in the form of a check under an offer to purchase or lease real estate, the broker may, with the written permission of both the buyer and the seller or the lessee and the lessor, refrain from depositing the money into an escrow account by the deadline in subsection (a) pending the sellers or lessors acceptance of the offer. The broker shall deposit the check into an escrow account within 1 business day of the sellers or lessors acceptance of the offer.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.324 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902).
Source The provisions of this § 35.325 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902); amended under sections 201, 501, 601, 602 and 604 of the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.201, 455.501, 455.601, 455.602 and 455.604).
Source The provisions of this § 35.325 adopted February 24, 1989, effective February 25, 1989, 19 Pa.B. 781; amended August 19, 2005, effective August 20, 2005, 35 Pa.B. 4711. Immediately preeding text appears at serial page (201874).
§ 35.326. Prohibition against commingling or misappropriation.
(a) Except as provided in subsection (b), a broker may not commingle money that is required to be held in escrowor interest earned on an escrow accountwith business, personal or other funds.
(b) A broker may deposit business or personal funds into an escrow account to cover service charges assessed to the account by the bank or depository where the account is located or to maintain a minimum balance in the account as required by the regulations of the bank or depository.
(c) A broker may not misappropriate money that is required to be held in escrowor interest earned on an escrow accountfor business, personal or other purposes.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.326 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902).
Source The provisions of this § 35.326 adopted February 24, 1989, effective February 25, 1989, 19 Pa.B. 781; amended June 10, 1994, effective June 11, 1994, 24 Pa.B. 2904. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (135767).
§ 35.327. Procedure when entitlement to money held in escrow is disputed.
If a dispute arises between the parties to a real estate transaction over entitlement to money that is being held in escrow by a broker, the broker shall retain the money in escrow until the dispute is resolved. If resolution of the dispute appears remote without legal action, the broker may, following 30 days notice to the parties, petition the county court having jurisdiction in the matter to interplead the rival claimants.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.327 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902).
Source The provisions of this § 35.327 adopted February 24, 1989, effective February 25, 1989, 19 Pa.B. 781.
§ 35.328. Escrow records.
A broker shall keep records of monies received by him that are required to be held in escrow and shall produce the records for examination by the Commission or its authorized representatives upon written request or pursuant to an office inspection under § 35.246 (relating to inspection of office). The records shall contain:
(1) The name of the party from whom the broker received the money.
(2) The name of the party to whom the money belongs.
(3) The name of the party for whose account the money is deposited.
(4) The date the broker received the money.
(5) The date the broker deposited the money into the escrow account.
(6) The date the broker withdrew the money from the escrow account.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.328 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902).
Source The provisions of this § 35.328 adopted February 24, 1989, effective February 25, 1989, 19 Pa.B. 781.
REAL ESTATE DOCUMENTS
§ 35.331. Written agreements generally.
(a) A written agreement between a broker and a principal or between a broker and a consumer whereby the consumer is or may be committed to pay a fee, commission or other valuable consideration shall contain the following:
(1) Notification that a Real Estate Recovery Fund exists to reimburse a person who has obtained a final civil judgment against a Commonwealth real estate licensee owing to fraud, misrepresentation or deceit in a real estate transaction and who has been unable to collect the judgment after exhausting legal and equitable remedies. Details about the Fund may be obtained by calling the Commission at (717) 783-3658.
(2) Notification that payments of money received by the broker on account of a saleregardless of the form of payment and the person designated as payee (if payment is made by an instrument)shall be held by the broker in an escrow account pending consummation of the sale or a prior termination thereof.
(3) Notification that the brokers commission and the duration of the agreement have been determined as a result of negotiations between the broker, or a licensee employed by the broker, and the seller/landlord or buyer/tenant.
(4) A description of the services to be provided and the fees to be charged.
(5) Notification about the possibility that the broker or any licensee employed by the broker may provide services to more than one party in a single transaction, and an explanation of the duties owed to the other party and the fees which the broker may receive for those services.
(6) Notification of the licensees continuing duty to disclose in a reasonably practicable period of time any conflict of interest.
(7) In an agreement between a broker and a seller/landlord, a statement regarding cooperation with subagents and buyers agents, a disclosure that a buyer agent, even if compensated by the listing broker or seller/landlord will represent the interests of the buyer/tenant and a disclosure of any potential for the broker to act as a dual agent.
(8) In an agreement between a broker and a buyer/tenant, an explanation that the broker may be compensated based upon a percentage of the purchase price, the brokers policies regarding cooperation with listing brokers willing to pay buyers brokers, a disclosure that the broker, even if compensated by the listing broker or seller/landlord will represent the interests of the buyer/tenant and a disclosure of any potential for the broker to act as a dual agent.
(b) To the extent that any of the information required in subsection (a) is set forth in the disclosure summaries in § § 35.33635.338 (relating to disclosure summary for the purchase or sale of residential or commercial real estate or for the lease of residential or commercial real estate when the licensee is working on behalf of the tenant; disclosure summary for the lease of residential or commercial real estate when the licensee is working on behalf of the owner; and disclosure summary for time-share estates), those provisions need not be repeated, but may be incorporated by reference.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.331 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902); amended under sections 404, 606606.6 and 608608.3 of the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.404, 455.606455.606f and 455.608455.608c).
Source The provisions of this § 35.331 adopted February 24, 1989, effective February 25, 1989, 19 Pa.B. 781; amended June 10, 1994, effective June 11, 1994, 24 Pa.B. 2904; corrected October 14, 1994, effective June 11, 1994, 24 Pa.B. 5229; amended March 29, 2002, effective March 30, 2002, 32 Pa.B. 1644. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (201876).
Cross References This section cited in 49 Pa. Code § 35.281 (relating to putting contracts, commitments and agreements in writing); and 49 Pa. Code § 35.332 (relating to exclusive listing agreements).
§ 35.332. Exclusive listing agreements.
(a) An exclusive listing agreement may comprise one of the following:
(1) The exclusive agency of the broker.
(2) The exclusive right-to-sell or exclusive right-to-lease.
(b) An exclusive listing agreement shall contain, in addition to the requirements in § 35.331 (relating to written agreements generally), the following:
(1) The sale or lease price.
(2) The commission, fees or other compensation expected on the sale or lease price.
(3) The duration of the agreement.
(4) In the case of an exclusive right-to-sell agreement, a statement in bold face type that the broker earns a commission on the sale of the property during the listing period by whomever made, including the owner.
(5) In the case of an exclusive right-to-lease agreement, a statement in bold print that the broker earns a commission on the lease of the property during the listing period by whomever made, including the lessor.
(c) An exclusive listing agreement may not contain:
(1) A listing period exceeding 1 year.
(2) An automatic renewal clause.
(3) A cancellation notice to terminate the agreement at the end of the listing period set forth in the agreement.
(4) Authority of the broker to execute a signed agreement of sale or lease for the owner or lessor.
(5) An option by the broker to purchase the listed property.
(6) Authority of the broker to confess judgment against the owner or lessor for the Commission in the event of a sale or lease.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.332 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902); amended under sections 404, 606606.6 and 608608.3 of the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.404, 455.606455.606f and 455.608455.608c).
Source The provisions of this § 35.333 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902); amended under sections 404, 606606.6 and 608608.3 of the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.404, 455.606455.606f and 455.608455.608c).
Source The provisions of this § 35.334 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902).
Source The provisions of this § 35.334 adopted February 24, 1989, effective February 25, 1989, 19 Pa.B. 781.
Cross References This section cited in 49 Pa. Code § 43b.8 (relating to schedule of civil penaltiesreal estate and cemetery brokers, real estate schools).
§ 35.335. Rental listing referral agreements.
The agreement between a rental listing referral agent and a prospective tenant shall contain:
(1) The rental specifications desired by the prospective tenant, such as location and rent.
(2) The following statement in bold print:
We are a referral service only. We are not acting as real estate salespersons or brokers. We do not guarantee that the purchaser will find a satisfac-tory rental unit through our service. Our only purpose is to furnish the purchaser with lists of available rental units.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.335 issued under the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.101455.902).
Source The provisions of this § 35.336 issued under section 608 of the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § 455.608); amended under sections 404, 606606.6 and 608608.3 of the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.404, 455.606455.606f and 455.608455.608c).
Source The provisions of this § 35.336 adopted January 7, 2000, effective January 8, 2000, 30 Pa.B. 228; amended March 29, 2002, effective March 30, 2002, 32 Pa.B. 1644; amended November 14, 2008, effective December 15, 2008, however, licensees have until June 15, 2009, to begin using the new Consumer Notice form, 38 Pa.B. 6282. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (287915) to (287919).
Cross References This section cited in 49 Pa. Code § 35.201 (relating to definitions); 49 Pa. Code § 35.284 (relating to disclosures of business relationships); 49 Pa. Code § 35.286 (relating to retention and production of records); and 49 Pa. Code § 35.331 (relating to written agreements generally).
§ 35.337. Disclosure summary for the lease of residential or commercial real estate when the licensee is working on behalf of the owner.
The disclosure summary for the lease of residential or commercial property shall be in the following format:
CONSUMER NOTICE
THIS IS NOT A CONTRACT
(LICENSEE) HEREBY STATES THAT WITH RESPECT TO THIS PROPERTY, (DESCRIBE PROPERTY) I AM ACTING IN THE FOLLOWING CAPACITY: (CHECK ONE)
(I) OWNER/LANDLORD OF THE PROPERTY;
(II) A DIRECT EMPLOYEE OF THE OWNER/LANDLORD; OR
(III) AN AGENT OF THE OWNER/LANDLORD PURSUANT TO A PROPERTY MANAGEMENT OR EXCLUSIVE LEASING AGREEMENT.
I ACKNOWLEDGE THAT I HAVE RECEIVED THIS NOTICE:
DATE:
PRINT (CONSUMER) PRINT (CONSUMER)
SIGNED (CONSUMER) SIGNED (CONSUMER)
ADDRESS (OPTIONAL): ADDRESS (OPTIONAL):
PHONE NUMBER PHONE NUMBER
(OPTIONAL): (OPTIONAL):
I CERTIFY THAT I HAVE PROVIDED THIS NOTICE:
(LICENSEE) (DATE)
Authority The provisions of this § 35.337 issued under sections 404, 606606.6 and 608608.3 of the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.404, 455.606455.606f and 455.608455.608c).
Source The provisions of this § 35.337 adopted March 29, 2002, effective March 30, 2002, 32 Pa.B. 1644.
Cross References This section cited in 49 Pa. Code § 35.284 (relating to disclosures of business relationships); 49 Pa. Code § 35.286 (relating to retention and production of records); and 49 Pa. Code § 35.331 (relating to written agreements generally).
§ 35.338. Disclosure summary for time-share estates.
The disclosure summary for time-share estates shall be in the following format:
CONSUMER NOTICE
THIS IS NOT A CONTRACT(LICENSEE) HEREBY STATES THAT WITH RESPECT TO THIS PROPERTY, (DESCRIBE PROPERTY) I AM ACTING IN THE FOLLOWING CAPACITY: (CHECK ONE)
(I) OWNER OF THE PROPERTY;
(II) A DIRECT EMPLOYEE OF THE OWNER; OR
(III) AN AGENT OF THE OWNER PURSUANT TO A PROPERTY MANAGEMENT OR EXCLUSIVE LEASING OR SELLING AGREEMENT.
I ACKNOWLEDGE THAT I HAVE RECEIVED THIS NOTICE:
(CONSUMER) (DATE)I CERTIFY THAT I HAVE PROVIDED THIS NOTICE:
(LICENSEE) (DATE)
Authority The provisions of this § 35.338 issued under sections 404, 606606.6 and 608608.3 of the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.404, 455.606455.606f and 455.608455.608c).
Source The provisions of this § 35.338 adopted March 29, 2002, effective March 30, 2002, 32 Pa.B. 1644.
Cross References This section cited in 49 Pa. Code § 35.284 (relating to disclosures of business relationships); 49 Pa. Code § 35.286 (relating to retention and production of records); and 49 Pa. Code § 35.331 (relating to written agreements generally).
§ 35.339. Oral disclosure.
The disclosure shall be read verbatim:
THE REAL ESTATE LAW REQUIRES THAT I PROVIDE YOU WITH A WRITTEN CONSUMER NOTICE THAT DESCRIBES THE VARIOUS BUSINESS RELATIONSHIP CHOICES THAT YOU MAY HAVE WITH A REAL ESTATE LICENSEE. SINCE WE ARE DISCUSSING REAL ESTATE WITHOUT YOU HAVING THE BENEFIT OF THE CONSUMER NOTICE, I HAVE THE DUTY TO ADVISE YOU THAT ANY INFORMATION YOU GIVE ME AT THIS TIME IS NOT CONSIDERED TO BE CONFIDENTIAL, AND ANY INFORMATION YOU GIVE ME WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED CONFIDENTIAL UNLESS AND UNTIL YOU AND I ENTER INTO A BUSINESS RELATIONSHIP. AT OUR FIRST MEETING I WILL PROVIDE YOU WITH A WRITTEN CONSUMER NOTICE WHICH EXPLAINS THOSE BUSINESS RELATIONSHIPS AND MY CORRESPONDING DUTIES TO YOU.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.339 issued under sections 404, 606606.6 and 608608.3 of the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.404, 455.606455.606f and 455.608455.608c).
Source The provisions of this § 35.339 adopted March 29, 2002, effective March 30, 2002, 32 Pa.B. 1644.
Cross References This section cited in 49 Pa. Code § 35.284 (relating to disclosures of business relationships).
§ 35.340. Comparative market analysis.
A comparative market analysis shall contain the following statement printed conspicuously and without change on the first page:
This analysis has not been performed in accordance with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice which requires valuers to act as unbiased, disinterested third parties with impartiality, objectivity and independence and without accommodation of personal interest. It is not to be construed as an appraisal and may not be used as such for any purpose.
Authority The provisions of this § 35.340 issued under sections 404, 606606.6 and 608608.3 of the Real Estate Licensing and Registration Act (63 P. S. § § 455.404, 455.606455.606f and 455.608455.608c).
Source The provisions of this § 35.340 adopted March 29, 2002, effective March 30, 2002, 32 Pa.B. 1644.
No part of the information on this site may be reproduced for profit or sold for profit.
This material has been drawn directly from the official Pennsylvania Code full text database. Due to the limitations of HTML or differences in display capabilities of different browsers, this version may differ slightly from the official printed version.