A real estate broker, Ms. Dubois, is representing a seller for a residential property in Gatineau. During a visit, a potential buyer asks about the property's foundation, mentioning a visible crack in the basement. The seller had previously stated verbally that the crack was minor and professionally repaired years ago, but no documentation was provided in the seller's declaration. What is Ms. Dubois's primary obligation regarding this information?

Question: A real estate broker, Ms. Dubois, is representing a seller for a residential property in Gatineau. During a visit, a potential buyer asks about the property's foundation, mentioning a visible crack in the basement. The seller had previously stated verbally that the crack was minor and professionally repaired years ago, but no documentation was provided in the seller's declaration. What is Ms. Dubois's primary obligation regarding this information?

Answer options: ✅ To verify the information provided by the seller regarding the foundation repair and ensure its accuracy.

• To advise the buyer to conduct their own inspection and disclaim any responsibility for hidden defects.
• To simply relay the seller's verbal statement to the buyer without further investigation.
• To document the buyer's concern in the promise to purchase, without requiring further action from the seller.

Correct answer: To verify the information provided by the seller regarding the foundation repair and ensure its accuracy.

Explanation: According to the Real Estate Brokerage Act, particularly Section 73, and the OACIQ Rules of Professional Conduct, a broker must verify the accuracy of the information they provide to clients and third parties, especially concerning material aspects of the immovable. Relying solely on a verbal statement when a visible defect is noted is insufficient.