With distressed properties, there can be confusion about when an offer is accepted. The seller is still the legal owner of the property in most cases, and must be the first to accept an offer. Yet the lender also must approve or agree to the transaction, since it’s being asked to take less than what’s owed on the mortgage.

Is it a violation of the Code of Ethics to advertise another broker's listing in print or on the Internet without permission from the listing agent or company?

Is it ethical to contact the owners of commercial property with old signage that don't appear to be actively marketed? Should I contact the broker and ask if he or she has a current listing on the property?

Must all offers to purchase property be in writing?