Dishonest Deals in Real Estate | The License Suspensions, Revocations, and Fines

When it comes to brokering a real estate deal, integrity matters.

As a real estate and broker license attorney, I’ve defended recent cases where the violation of 475.25(1)(b), Florida Statutes put the clients’ licenses, livelihood, and futures at serious risk. The Florida Statutes are very clear to hold real estate professionals accountable in instances of fraud, misrepresentation, concealment, false promises, false pretenses, dishonest dealing by trick, scheme, or device, culpable negligence, or breach of trust.

Dishonest Dealings…Did You Know?

Aiding & Assisting. You can be found guilty of violating this law even if you aided, assisted, or conspired with another; or formed an intent, design, or scheme to engage in such misconduct and committed an overt act in furtherance of such intent, design, or scheme.

Penalties. If you as a licensed real estate professional or broker are found guilty, the Commission can impose strict penalties and even a revocation of your license.

• Fraud, misrepresentation and dishonest dealings can result in the revocation of your real estate or broker’s license.
• Where concealment, false promises, and false pretenses are concerned, a penalty of a 3 to 5-year suspension and administrative fine (not to exceed $5,000) can be imposed.
• Culpable negligence and breach of trust, can results in an administrative fine not to exceed $5,000 and up to a 1-year suspension of your license.
• For violating a duty imposed by law or a listing agreement; aided, assisted or conspired; or formed an intent, design or scheme to engage in such misconduct, the usual action of the Commission is to impose an administrative fine (not to exceed $5,000) and up to a 5-year license suspension.

Real Estate Professionals and Brokers Have Rights

If you’ve been served an administrative complaint or been notified that you are under investigation for an alleged violation by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, acting fast is your first best move.

Your response to the Administrative Complaint or Letter of Investigation plays a vital part in your discipline. We can assist you with the response, to attempt to minimize the level of discipline you receive.

Qualified Defense Teams Matter

Howell, Buchan, and Strong’s legal team are uniquely qualified to assist in real estate licensing cases. Rickey Strong has a history of successfully defending Florida cases and is available to discuss your unique circumstances.