Tennessee Realtor State Practice Exam

How can a consumer report a possible license violation?

1. Contact a local law enforcement agency

2. File a complaint with the Tennessee Real Estate Commission

3. File a lawsuit

4. Notify the real estate agent's brokerage

The correct answer is: File a complaint with the Tennessee Real Estate Commission

A consumer can report a possible license violation by filing a complaint with the Tennessee Real Estate Commission because this agency governs and regulates the real estate profession in Tennessee. The Commission is responsible for enforcing state laws related to real estate transactions and the conduct of licensees. By submitting a complaint directly to the Commission, a consumer helps initiate an official investigation into the alleged violation, allowing the regulatory body to take appropriate action if necessary. This process is specifically designed to address issues related to professional conduct and licensing standards within the industry. While other options may involve various actions related to disputes or violations, they do not directly lead to the appropriate regulatory oversight that the Tennessee Real Estate Commission provides. For instance, contacting a local law enforcement agency may be suitable for criminal matters, but license violations often fall within the realm of civil regulation rather than criminal law. Filing a lawsuit could address personal grievances or seek damages, but it does not notify the regulatory body responsible for taking action against a licensee's misconduct. Notifying the real estate agent's brokerage might lead to internal consequences within that specific company, but it is not the same as alerting the state commission, which has the authority to enforce licensing regulations and protect consumer interests on a broader scale.