Florida Real Estate Sales Associate Examination Content OutlineReal Estate Brokerage Activities and ProceduresHard
A Florida real estate sales associate has been found guilty of a felony related to fraud. This conviction occurred after they received their license. What is the most likely disciplinary action FREC will take against their license?
- AA fine not exceeding $1,000 and mandatory ethics courses.
- BProbation for a period not exceeding two years.
- CRevocation of the real estate license.
- DSuspension for up to one year.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Revocation of the real estate license.
A felony conviction, especially one related to fraud, is considered a serious offense that demonstrates a lack of moral character and trustworthiness required for licensure. In such cases, the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC) is most likely to revoke the real estate license.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Fines are typically for less severe violations or in conjunction with other penalties, but not usually the sole penalty for a felony fraud conviction.
- B. Probation is a less severe penalty, often used for violations where the licensee can demonstrate rehabilitation or for less egregious offenses.
- D. Suspension is a temporary removal of license privileges; a felony fraud conviction usually warrants a permanent removal.
License Revocation (FL)
The permanent termination of a real estate license by the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC) due to severe violations of license law or criminal conduct.
- Most severe disciplinary action.
- Typically for serious offenses like fraud, felony convictions, or habitual violations.
- Licensee is permanently barred from practicing real estate in Florida (unless reinstated under rare circumstances).
Memory trick: Felony Fraud: F-R-E-C means Final Revocation, End of Career.