One of the first requests that a consumer should expect to receive from a NJ licensed real estate agent is a request to view and sign a New Jersey Consumer Information Statement (in PA it's called a Consumer Notice).
State law in New Jersey requires that all agents present a Consumer Information Statement (CIS) upon first contact with a real estate consumer. The purpose is to inform and explain to the consumer about the different forms of agency relationship and what real estate office the agent is licensed under and representing. The real estate codes/statutes are very clear about this requirement as it was established for the protection of the consumer. Failure on the part of the agent to properly present and obtain confirmation of that presentation will put the agent and his agency in jeopardy of action by the state real estate commission with suspension or even loss of license.
While some consumers may be hesitant about signing anything, it is important to realize and be assured that it is not a contract and even says so on the form. The agent is only doing what he is required to do by the state real estate commission.
What you do and agree to after signing is what will determine the agency relationship you will have with the agent.
Below are links to examples of the Consumer Information Statement (or Consumer Notice) for you to view, along with links to state real estate commission, REALTOR associations and corresponding codes/statutes:
New Jersey
Consumer Information Statement (CIS) - Presented to buyers, sellers, landlords, and potential tenants of one to 4-unit residential properties the agent will be representing. (Online version on my web site, with links to downloadable versions.)
NJ Association of REALTORS (NJAR)
NJ Real Estate Commission (part of the Department of Banking and Insurance)
Real Estate Licensing Statute (NJSA 45:15-1)
Property Owner Letter - Given to property owners to explain the laws against discrimination
For real estate resources, help and support services in acquiring or selling properties in New Jersey, Visit my web site: LawrenceYerkes.com
and visit Besthomes-NJ.com to shop for the latest New Jersey Real Estate property listings (Residential, Commercial, Multi-Family, Farm, Land).
Copyright 2008 by Lawrence Yerkes. All Rights Reserved.
Consumer Protection: New Jersey Consumer Information Statement (C.I.S.)
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