New Hampshire Real Estate License Law (RSA 331-A)
New Hampshire real estate practice is governed by RSA 331-A and administered by the New Hampshire Real Estate Commission. This chapter covers the Commission's authority, the roles of broker and salesperson, and grounds for discipline.
The New Hampshire Real Estate Commission
The New Hampshire Real Estate Commission administers RSA 331-A, which requires a license for anyone who, for another and for a fee, sells, lists, leases, or negotiates real estate. The Commission licenses brokers and salespersons, adopts rules, investigates complaints, and may deny, suspend, or revoke a license and impose penalties. Practicing without a required license is subject to enforcement.
Broker and Salesperson
A salesperson holds an entry-level license and must be associated with and supervised by a licensed broker; a salesperson may not operate independently. A broker is responsible for supervising affiliated salespersons, maintaining trust accounts, and ensuring the office complies with RSA 331-A. The broker is accountable for the licensed conduct of the salespersons in the firm.
Compensation and Discipline
A New Hampshire salesperson may accept compensation for brokerage services only from the associated broker, not directly from a buyer, seller, or another broker. Grounds for discipline under RSA 331-A include misrepresentation, dishonest dealing, commingling or converting trust funds, and failing to make required disclosures. Serious violations can result in suspension or revocation of the license.