Case study 1

Chris is the principal agent at City Real Estate. He has built the agency over the last six years and he has established a strong client base and reputation within the local region. He has several experienced employee agents and agent’s representatives working for the agency.

Bethany has been working as administration manager for City Real Estate since its inception and has worked closely with Chris to build the business. She displays a keen interest in the real estate industry and over the years has developed an excellent working knowledge of various aspects of an agent’s role. She has decided to undertake training to become an Agent’s Representative.

Chris was recently offered a teaching position at a local TAFE. As a result he is spending less time in the office, sometimes not coming into the office for days in a row. He is confident that the staff will continue to provide excellent service.

Last week one of the agents responsible for property management resigned and Chris has asked Bethany to conduct some urgent rental property inspections and prepare the condition reports.

a) Identify any breaches under the relevant Act for your state or territory. You must refer to the appropriate section.

b) What advice would you give Bethany and Chris?

c) How will any breach of the Act impact on Bethany's eligibility to be an agent's representative?