In a scenario where a licensee hires another licensee from the same firm to assist in negotiations and sales, the supervising licensee must be what?

• A. Be a broker
• B. Be a managing broker
• C. Be a salesperson
• D. Be a partner

Answer: (B)

In Washington, the person who supervises other licensees in a real estate firm must hold the designation of a managing broker. This role, also known as the broker-in-charge, carries the authority and responsibility to oversee transactions, ensure compliance with real estate laws and firm policies, and supervise the activities of every licensee within the firm. A regular broker does not have this supervisory authority, a salesperson cannot supervise, and simply being a partner does not grant the required licensing authority. So when a licensee from the same firm assists in negotiations and sales, the supervising licensee must be the managing broker to legally oversee and coordinate those activities.