Understanding the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) and Its Functions

Definition & Meaning

The Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) is a regulatory agency in Texas that oversees the education and licensing of real estate professionals, including brokers, inspectors, and salespersons. TREC's primary mission is to protect consumers' economic interests by ensuring that licensed professionals fulfill their fiduciary duties, are qualified, and maintain high professional standards. The agency also supports the growth of the real estate market in Texas by providing education and regulating the industry.

Table of content

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A real estate agent in Texas must complete a certain number of continuing education hours each year to maintain their license, as mandated by TREC.

Example 2: If a consumer files a complaint against a real estate broker for unethical practices, TREC investigates the claim and may take disciplinary action if necessary. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Licensing Authority Continuing Education Requirements
Texas Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) 18 hours every two years
California California Department of Real Estate (DRE) 45 hours every four years
Florida Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) 14 hours every two years

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
Real Estate Broker A licensed professional who facilitates real estate transactions. Brokers are licensed by TREC, while TREC is the regulatory body overseeing licensing.
Real Estate Agent A licensed individual who represents buyers or sellers in real estate transactions. Agents work under brokers and must adhere to TREC regulations.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are a real estate professional in Texas, ensure you meet the licensing and continuing education requirements set by TREC. If you have a complaint against a licensee, you can file it directly with TREC. For assistance with forms and templates, consider exploring US Legal Forms for ready-to-use legal documents. If your situation is complex, consulting a legal professional may be necessary.

Quick facts

  • Licensing Authority: Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC)
  • Typical Fees: Varies by licensing type
  • Continuing Education: 18 hours every two years for agents
  • Possible Penalties: Fines, license suspension, or revocation

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

TREC oversees the licensing and regulation of real estate professionals in Texas.