Which of the following is a characteristic of an implied agency relationship?

An implied agency relationship is characterized by behaviors and actions that suggest a relationship of agency exists, even if no formal agreement has been made. This means that the actions of the parties involved signal an understanding that one party is acting on behalf of another, without explicitly stating this in a written contract or through formal acknowledgment.

In real estate transactions, for example, a buyer might rely on a real estate agent for advice and counsel, and if the agent behaves in a way that clearly indicates they are acting on the buyer's behalf—such as showing properties or discussing negotiation strategies—an implied agency could be established based on these actions.

This concept is distinct from the lack of a written agreement or formal contract. In implied agency, there is no need for a written document; rather, the relationship is inferred from the conduct of the parties. This differentiates it from options that focus on written agreements, formal contracts, or public acknowledgment, all of which pertain to express agency relationships rather than implied ones.