A real estate salesperson, Ben, is creating a flyer for an open house for a property in Hamilton. He wants to include testimonials from previous satisfied clients. What is a key requirement for including such testimonials under the Code of Ethics?

Question: A real estate salesperson, Ben, is creating a flyer for an open house for a property in Hamilton. He wants to include testimonials from previous satisfied clients. What is a key requirement for including such testimonials under the Code of Ethics?

Answer options:

• Ben must only include testimonials from clients within the last year. ✅ Ben must obtain written consent from the client prior to using their testimonial, and the testimonial must be factual.
• Ben can paraphrase testimonials as long as the general sentiment is maintained.
• Ben is not required to obtain consent if the testimonial is positive and does not reveal sensitive information.

Correct answer: Ben must obtain written consent from the client prior to using their testimonial, and the testimonial must be factual.

Explanation: Rule 33(h) of the Code of Ethics states that a registrant shall not use testimonials that are not factual or when the person giving the testimonial has not given their written consent to its use.