In the NAR code of ethics, "shall" means a REALTOR® must do something or potentially face ethics violations.

The Hotline says to tell the sellers to obtain legal counsel – meaning hiring/consulting the trial lawyers that the seller will hire if the first buyers or the second buyers or both sets of buyers sue the sellers.

REALTORS® shall recommend that sellers/ landlords obtain the advice of legal counsel prior to acceptance of a subsequent offer except where the acceptance is contingent on the termination of the pre-existing purchase contract or lease. (Amended 1/20)

"Parties agree this Contract is contingent upon the termination of all the pre-existing contract(s)/lease(s) on 123 Main Street, Columbia, SC."

Upon the written request of a cooperating broker who submits an offer to the listing broker, the listing broker shall provide, as soon as practical, a written affirmation to the cooperating broker stating that the offer has been submitted to the seller/landlord, or a written notification that the seller/landlord has waived the obligation to have the offer presented.

https://www.screaltors.org/wp-content/uploads/Forms/314.pdf

Standard of Practice 1-7 When acting as listing brokers, REALTORS® shall continue to submit to the seller/landlord all offers and counter-offers until closing or execution of a lease unless the seller/landlord has waived this obligation in writing. Upon the written request of a cooperating broker who submits an offer to the listing broker, the listing broker shall provide, as soon as practical, a written affirmation to the cooperating broker stating that the offer has been submitted to the seller/landlord, or a written notification that the seller/landlord has waived the obligation to have the offer presented. REALTORS® shall not be obligated to continue to market the property after an offer has been accepted by the seller/landlord. REALTORS® shall recommend that sellers/ landlords obtain the advice of legal counsel prior to acceptance of a subsequent offer except where the acceptance is contingent on the termination of the pre-existing purchase contract or lease. (Amended 1/20)

Posted by: Byron King on 12/20/21 (This information is only accurate as of 12/20/21. You must contact SCR for updates and changes to this information after 12/20/21 as laws and regulations may change over time. SCR 803-772-5206 or email info at screaltors.org or email byron at screaltors.org)

This information is not legal advice. This information is intended only to provide general information and may not be relied upon as specific legal guidance. Legal counsel should always be consulted before acting in reliance on this information.