Florida Real Estate Sales Associate Examination Content OutlineReal Estate Brokerage Activities and ProceduresMedium

A real estate sales associate is preparing to conduct a comparative market analysis (CMA) for a potential seller client. Which of the following statements is TRUE regarding the sales associate's role in performing a CMA?

  1. AA sales associate can only prepare a CMA under the direct supervision of a licensed appraiser.
  2. BA sales associate can prepare a CMA and charge a fee for it, provided it is clearly labeled as an appraisal.
  3. CA sales associate can prepare a CMA, but it must include a disclaimer that it is not an appraisal.
  4. DA sales associate cannot prepare a CMA, as this constitutes unlicensed appraisal activity.
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C. A sales associate can prepare a CMA, but it must include a disclaimer that it is not an appraisal.

Florida law permits real estate licensees to prepare Comparative Market Analyses (CMAs) or Broker Price Opinions (BPOs) for compensation, provided they include a disclaimer stating that the report is not an appraisal and should not be considered as such.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. Supervision by an appraiser is not required for a sales associate to prepare a CMA.
  • B. A CMA is not an appraisal, and labeling it as such would be misleading and illegal.
  • D. Sales associates are permitted to prepare CMAs; it does not constitute unlicensed appraisal activity if done correctly.

Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)

An analysis of the prices of recently sold homes that are similar to a subject property in terms of location, style, and amenities.

  • Prepared by real estate licensees.
  • Used to help determine a listing price or offer price.
  • Must include a disclaimer that it is not an appraisal.

Memory trick: CMA is a guide, Appraisal is the law's eye.

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