A real estate agent must always perform which of the following duties?

The duty to provide accurate and honest representation of the property is fundamental to a real estate agent's role. This obligation ensures that agents disclose all relevant details about a property, including its condition, features, and any defects. By maintaining honesty and accuracy, agents help to build trust with clients and facilitate informed decision-making. This duty is reinforced by legal and ethical standards in the real estate profession, such as the duty of disclosure and the obligation to avoid misrepresentation. Adhering to this principle protects consumers and upholds the integrity of the real estate industry.

Other choices may involve desirable actions or services, but they do not encapsulate the essential, non-negotiable duties of a real estate agent. For instance, encouraging competition could be beneficial in some contexts, but it is not a standard duty. Likewise, guaranteeing a sale or providing legal advice oversteps the agent’s role, as agents are not authorized to ensure transactions or offer legal guidance unless they are also licensed attorneys.