A real estate broker, Mr. David Chen, is found by the OACIQ Discipline Committee to have failed to reveal a latent defect affecting a multi-unit dwelling in Sherbrooke despite being aware of it. The buyers suffered significant financial damages. Which of the following consequences is least likely to be a direct outcome of the Discipline Committee's decision regarding Mr. Chen?

Question: A real estate broker, Mr. David Chen, is found by the OACIQ Discipline Committee to have failed to reveal a latent defect affecting a multi-unit dwelling in Sherbrooke despite being aware of it. The buyers suffered significant financial damages. Which of the following consequences is least likely to be a direct outcome of the Discipline Committee's decision regarding Mr. Chen?

Answer options:

• Suspension of Mr. Chen's real estate broker's licence for a specified period.
• A referral to the Real Estate Indemnity Fund for the buyers to claim compensation.
• An order for Mr. Chen to pay a substantial administrative fine. ✅ A decision by the OACIQ to directly compensate the buyers for their damages without their involvement.

Correct answer: A decision by the OACIQ to directly compensate the buyers for their damages without their involvement.

Explanation: The Discipline Committee imposes sanctions on the broker. While their decision might trigger a claim from the Real Estate Indemnity Fund (FICI) for the buyers, the OACIQ itself does not directly compensate victims from its operational budget without a formal claim to the FICI. The FICI is distinct and requires an application from the victim.