Unlicensed Assistants

The LREC receives numerous inquiries regarding the activities of secretaries and assistants. The following information is based on the most frequently asked questions. It is not all-inclusive, and it is not intended to replace the advice of competent legal counsel.

It is recommended that you review the Louisiana Real Estate License Law for additional information. See R.S. 37:1431 for a description of activities that require a real estate license.

Unlicensed secretaries and assistants can:

1. Answer the phone and forward calls to a licensee
2. Submit listings and changes to a multiple listing service (MLS)
3. Follow up on loan commitments after a contract has been negotiated
4. Place signs on a listed property
5. Order items of routine repair as directed by a licensee
6. Prepare flyers and promotional information for approval by licensee and supervising broker
7. Type contract forms as directed by a licensee and supervising broker
8. Act as courier service to deliver documents, pick up keys, etc.
9. Schedule appointments for a licensee to show listed property
10. Secure public information documents from a courthouse, sewer district, water district, etc.
11. Have keys made for company listings
12. Write ads as directed by a licensee and supervising broker and place advertising (promotional information, newspaper ads, etc.)

Unlicensed secretaries and assistants can NOT:

1. Host an open house
2. Prepare promotional material or ads without the review and approval of licensee and supervising broker
3. Show property listed for sale
4. Answer any questions on listing
5. Discuss or explain a contract, listing, or other real estate documents with anyone outside the firm
6. Be paid on the basis of real estate activity, such as a percentage of commission, or any amount based on listings, sales, etc.
7. Negotiate or agree to any commission, commission split, management fee or referral fee on behalf of a licensee