An individual walks into a real estate brokerage in Edmonton and asks a real estate associate, Mark, about properties listed for sale. Mark provides them with general information about the current market, available listings from the MLS® System, and explains the buying process. At this stage, what is the individual's relationship with Mark?

Question: An individual walks into a real estate brokerage in Edmonton and asks a real estate associate, Mark, about properties listed for sale. Mark provides them with general information about the current market, available listings from the MLS® System, and explains the buying process. At this stage, what is the individual's relationship with Mark?

Answer options:

• Client, as Mark has provided them with market information. ✅ Customer, as Mark is providing factual information without acting as their agent.
• Principal, as they are seeking services from Mark's brokerage.
• Agent, as Mark is representing them in their property search.

Correct answer: Customer, as Mark is providing factual information without acting as their agent.

Explanation: At this stage, the individual is a customer. Mark is providing factual, general information without having entered into an agency relationship where he owes fiduciary duties. This aligns with the concept of customer status in RECA's Rules.