If a broker discloses a deceased client's hidden bank account to another agent, this is considered what?

If a broker discloses a deceased client's hidden bank account to another agent, this is considered what?

• A. Unethical because of fiduciary duties
• B. Illegal because of fair housing duties
• C. Ethical because the client is deceased
• D. Legal because of fair housing

Answer: (A)

The situation described involves a broker disclosing confidential information about a deceased client's hidden bank account to another agent. This act is deemed unethical due to the fiduciary duties that a broker has toward their client. Even after a client passes away, the broker must uphold confidentiality concerning any sensitive information acquired during the professional relationship. Disclosing such information undermines the trust inherent in the agent-client relationship and violates the ethical obligations positioned by professional standards and state laws governing fiduciary duties in real estate. These fiduciary duties include loyalty, confidentiality, disclosure, and accounting. By breaching confidentiality, the broker not only acts unethically but also risks legal consequences and possible disciplinary action from regulatory bodies. Hence, the focus on the fiduciary duties aligns with the ethical responsibilities that agents are expected to maintain, even posthumously regarding their clients.

The situation described involves a broker disclosing confidential information about a deceased client's hidden bank account to another agent. This act is deemed unethical due to the fiduciary duties that a broker has toward their client. Even after a client passes away, the broker must uphold confidentiality concerning any sensitive information acquired during the professional relationship. Disclosing such information undermines the trust inherent in the agent-client relationship and violates the ethical obligations positioned by professional standards and state laws governing fiduciary duties in real estate.

These fiduciary duties include loyalty, confidentiality, disclosure, and accounting. By breaching confidentiality, the broker not only acts unethically but also risks legal consequences and possible disciplinary action from regulatory bodies. Hence, the focus on the fiduciary duties aligns with the ethical responsibilities that agents are expected to maintain, even posthumously regarding their clients.