Broker Supervision and Continuing Responsibilities
A management-level Ohio broker is accountable for the licensed activity of affiliated salespersons and must keep the brokerage in compliance. This chapter covers supervisory duties, continuing education, and liability for a salesperson's misconduct.
Duty to Supervise
A management-level broker must reasonably supervise the licensed activities of affiliated salespersons, including advertising, agency disclosures, and trust-fund handling. The broker need not attend every showing, but failing to supervise can subject the broker to discipline even when the salesperson committed the underlying violation. Written policies and periodic review help meet this duty.
Continuing Education and Renewal
Ohio licenses renew on a set cycle and require Division-approved continuing education, including mandatory topics such as core law and fair housing. A broker must satisfy CE to keep the license active and, as the responsible licensee, ensures the brokerage and its salespersons also meet their obligations. No licensee is exempt from renewal or CE simply because they hold a broker license.
Liability for Salesperson Conduct
Because the broker controls the trust account and supervises salespersons, a salesperson's mishandling of client funds or other violations can expose the responsible broker to discipline for failure to supervise. Disciplinary action follows the statutory process, including notice and an opportunity for a hearing before the Ohio Real Estate Commission.