Brokerage Registration and Restrictions in Alberta
Associates and Associate Brokers must meet specific registration requirements as outlined in the Real Estate Act and Real Estate Act Rules.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
Brokerage Registration Requirements
Restrictions on Being Registered with Multiple Brokerages
Roles of Associates vs. Associate Brokers
Brokerage Registration Requirements
What the Legislation States
Associates and Associate Brokers must meet specific registration requirements as outlined in the Real Estate Act and Real Estate Act Rules.
A person must not trade in real estate as a real estate broker unless that person is authorized by the Real Estate Council of Alberta to do so.
Associates and associate brokers must be registered with a licensed brokerage and cannot operate independently.
Key Steps for Registration
Meet the educational requirements outlined by RECA.
An applicant for a licence must demonstrate that they meet the educational requirements set out in the Rules.
Be sponsored by a licensed brokerage.
An associate broker or associate must only be registered with one brokerage at a time.
Submit required application forms and fees to RECA.
Compliance with the Brokerage
Associates and associate brokers are accountable to the broker and must comply with the brokerage’s policies, as well as Alberta legislation.
A broker is responsible for ensuring that the business of the brokerage is carried out competently and in accordance with the Act, Regulations, Rules, and Bylaws.
Restrictions on Being Registered with Multiple Brokerages
Overview of Prohibitions
Under Alberta law, individuals are prohibited from being registered with multiple brokerages at the same time.
A person cannot hold a licence with more than one brokerage at any given time.
Why This Restriction Exists
To avoid conflicts of interest.
To ensure clear accountability to one brokerage and its broker.
To maintain transparency in dealings with clients and the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA).
Consequences of Violating This Rule
Violations may lead to disciplinary actions, including fines or suspension of licensing.
The Council may impose an administrative penalty if a licensee contravenes the Act, its regulations, or rules.
Roles of Associates vs. Associate Brokers
Responsibilities of Associates
Associates act under the direction of the brokerage's broker and may provide condominium management services, trade in real estate, or both, depending on their license.
An associate must only deal in activities authorized by their licence and under the supervision of their broker.
Responsibilities of Associate Brokers
Associate brokers have additional qualifications (e.g., higher education or experience) but still work under the supervision of a broker.
An associate broker has the qualifications of a broker but is restricted from independently operating a brokerage.
Key Differences Between the Two Roles
Supervision:
Associate: Supervised by the broker.
Associate Broker: Supervised by the broker.
Qualifications:
Associate: Entry-level licensing requirements.
Associate Broker: Additional qualifications required (e.g., broker education).
Authority:
Associate: Cannot act independently.
Associate Broker: Cannot act independently but holds higher responsibility compared to associates.
