Chapter 5 Flashcards
Negligence
A tort involving a failure by a person to exercise care in circumstances which require that person to take care. For example, a real estate licensee can be liable for failing to use reasonable care in dealing with a client, resulting in damage or loss.
Elements of Negligence
- Duty of Care: The defendant owed the plaintiff a duty to take care.<br></br>2. Breach of Standard of Care: The defendant breached the standard of care owed.<br></br>3. Damages: The damages suffered were not too remote in law.
Example of Negligence
A real estate agent fails to disclose a known defect in a property, causing the buyer to suffer financial loss after the purchase.
Negligent Misrepresentation
A false assertion of fact made negligently. Licensees can be liable if they give advice or information without verifying its accuracy, and the client relies on it, leading to a loss.
Elements of Negligent Misrepresentation
- An untrue statement.<br></br>2. Made negligently.<br></br>3. A special relationship giving rise to a duty of care.<br></br>4. Reasonable reliance by the plaintiff.
Example of Negligent Misrepresentation
A licensee incorrectly assures a buyer that a property is free from defects without verifying this information.
Vicarious Liability
A legal principle holding an employer liable for the wrongful acts of an employee when those acts are committed in the ordinary course of employment. For example, a real estate brokerage can be held liable for the negligent acts of its licensees.
Example of Vicarious Liability
A brokerage is sued because one of its agents made an error in drafting a contract while working on a transaction.
Breach of Fiduciary Duty
Occurs when an agent (licensee) acts in their own interest rather than the client’s, or fails to disclose relevant information. For example, failing to inform a client about a conflict of interest or acting secretly with another party.
Example of Breach of Fiduciary Duty
An agent accepts a kickback from a buyer without informing the seller, violating the duty of loyalty to the seller.
Money Laundering
The process of disguising the origins of money obtained through illegal activities by converting it into a legitimate source. Real estate is attractive for money laundering due to its high value and potential for profit.
Stages of Money Laundering
- Placement: Introducing dirty money into the financial system.<br></br>2. Layering: Concealing the source of the money through complex transactions.<br></br>3. Integration: Reintroducing the money into the legitimate economy.
Example of Money Laundering in Real Estate
Using illicit funds to purchase a property, then selling the property and claiming the proceeds are legitimate income.
Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC)
The Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada, which collects, analyzes, and discloses information to combat money laundering and terrorist financing. Key tasks include requiring reports from entities, analyzing financial transactions, ensuring compliance, and promoting awareness.
Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act (PCMLTFA)
The Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act, which imposes obligations on real estate licensees to identify clients, keep records, report suspicious transactions, and establish compliance programs.
Know Your Client (KYC)
Obligations under the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act (PCMLTFA) for identifying clients and verifying their identity. This includes individuals and entities involved in real estate transactions. For example, identifying the beneficial owners of a corporation.
Suspicious Transaction Report (STR)
A report that must be filed with the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC) when there are reasonable grounds to suspect that a transaction is related to money laundering or terrorist financing. The report should include detailed information about the transaction and the reasons for suspicion.
Large Cash Transaction
Defined as receiving $10,000 or more in cash in a single transaction or over a 24-hour period. Licensees must identify the individual or entity and file a report with the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC).
Beneficial Ownership
Refers to individuals who directly or indirectly own or control 25% or more of a corporation or entity. Licensees must identify and verify the beneficial owners to combat money laundering.