Q: A friend of mine is selling their house but they listed their house with another firm. They aren’t sure if they are satisfied with their current progress and would like to talk to me to see what they can do and, possibly, end their agreement with the firm and sign with me. What can I say to them?

A: This is covered in the Code of Ethics, Standard of Practice 16-6. If you know they are being represented and they initiate the conversation with you, whether directly or not, you are allowed to do two things. You can discuss the terms upon which you may enter into a future agreement. Or, you can enter into an agreement which would be effective on the expiration of any existing exclusive agreement. In either event, at a minimum, you’ll need to be very careful that you do not engage in any interference with the existing contract.

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Information accurate as of 03/28/23