Before you read
Test yourself first: 5 questions
Question 1 of 5
Massachusetts requires brokers to keep records of escrow account transactions. The primary purpose of these record-keeping requirements is to:
Answer: A. Record-keeping (deposit ledgers, transaction records, supporting documents) lets the Board and the parties verify that consumer funds were handled correctly, supporting audits and consumer protection.
Question 2 of 5
A Massachusetts broker repeatedly advertises listings without identifying that the advertisement is placed by a licensed real estate broker (so-called 'blind ads'). This practice is:
Answer: B. Blind advertising that conceals that the ad is placed by a licensee is a prohibited practice. Advertising by a licensee must indicate that a licensed broker is involved so the public is not misled. Seller approval does not cure a blind ad.
Question 3 of 5
A Massachusetts salesperson wants to advertise a property she has listed. Massachusetts advertising rules require that the advertisement:
Answer: A. Salespersons advertise only through and in the name of their sponsoring broker. Advertising must identify the brokerage; a salesperson cannot advertise listed property under her own name as if independent.
Question 4 of 5
Massachusetts prohibits real estate advertising that is false or misleading. An ad that promotes a property at a price the seller has not authorized, in order to attract calls, would BEST be characterized as:
Answer: A. Advertising must be truthful and not deceptive. Promoting terms or prices the seller has not approved to lure prospects is misleading/bait advertising and is prohibited.
Question 5 of 5
When may a Massachusetts licensee advertise a property for sale?
Answer: A. A licensee may not advertise property without authority from the owner (or the listing broker). Advertising a property the licensee has no authority to market is improper.
Keep the streak going with more questions like these, each with a full rationale.
What you need to know
Blind ads that hide the licensee's status or fail to identify the brokerage are prohibited, and all marketing must accurately represent the property and the licensee's role. Brokers must keep complete and accurate transaction and escrow records, including documentation of deposits held in trust, and make them available to the Board on request. Failure to maintain proper records or running deceptive advertising are recognized grounds for disciplinary action.
Massachusetts Advertising & Record-Keeping Rules: FAQs
Is Massachusetts Advertising & Record-Keeping Rules on the real estate exam?
Yes. State License Law is a scored domain on the Massachusetts real estate licensing exam, and this topic appears in the state license-law portion.
Is this cheat sheet free?
Yes — every page on Cinna RE's resource library is free to read, print and share. The app adds practice questions, mock exams and a readiness score.
Does Massachusetts test this differently?
Massachusetts applies its own license law on top of the national portion. This page covers the Massachusetts rules specifically, which is what the state section of your exam tests.
