Three conditions for compensation eligibility include:

• A. Only the broker must be licensed
• B. The compensation must be in writing only
• C. The broker must be licensed, the compensation agreement must be in writing, and the buyer advised to get title insurance
• D. The buyer must be advised to get title insurance only

Answer: (C)

Understanding compensation eligibility in real estate hinges on three key elements that make the arrangement lawful, clear, and protective for the client. First, a broker must be licensed to legally receive any compensation for real estate services; doing otherwise would violate state licensing laws and professional rules, exposing both the broker and the client to risk. Second, the compensation arrangement needs to be in writing so there is a clear contract that specifies who pays, how much, and under what conditions, which helps prevent disputes and satisfies legal and regulatory requirements for enforceable agreements. Third, advising the buyer to obtain title insurance is a prudent disclosure that protects the buyer from potential title defects or undisclosed issues affecting ownership, reflecting the broker’s duty to inform and safeguard the client’s interests. When all three are present—the broker is licensed, the compensation agreement is in writing, and the buyer is advised to get title insurance—the compensation is properly earned, enforceable, and the transaction is conducted with appropriate professional safeguards.