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What should a Designated Broker do if they receive an ethics complaint?

  1. Ignore it and focus on sales

  2. Respond to the complaint promptly

  3. Delegate to a subordinate without reviewing

  4. Advise the complainant to contact legal counsel

The correct answer is: Respond to the complaint promptly

The appropriate action for a Designated Broker upon receiving an ethics complaint is to respond to the complaint promptly. This response is critical for maintaining professionalism, upholding ethical standards, and ensuring the integrity of the real estate profession. Timely action not only demonstrates the broker's commitment to ethical practices but also helps to address the concerns raised by the complainant effectively. Prompt responses allow for thorough investigations to take place, which can lead to a resolution that addresses the issues at hand. It also helps to maintain trust in the brokerage and its operations, as stakeholders expect ethical considerations to be handled seriously and swiftly. Ignoring the complaint would reflect poorly on the broker and the agency, while delegating the responsibility without proper oversight could lead to unresolved issues and potential escalations. Encouraging the complainant to seek legal counsel may distance the brokerage from the situation instead of actively engaging in a resolution. Prompt attention to ethical complaints ultimately aligns with the core values of the real estate profession and regulatory standards.