Why oh why do so many agents/brokers omit their lic# on biz card & email?

[Account Closed]

at least here in CA, license law clearly states that 'first point of contact materials' - including BUSINESS CARD & EMAILS - must include their license# as well as an indication as to whether they are an agent, broker (or if eligible, 'Realtor') in no smaller font than the smallest other print on the material.

however, theres so many cards i've been handed and intro email msgs lately that still are missing the license# altogether!

obviously they cant be expected to include it in every email (or are they?) but at least the first yet is just not there sometimes in the first.

and a google search for CA real estate business cards shows me its not just a problem local to my city or demographics?

so, why do folks still risk it?

oh and is it okay for agents/brokers to email each one or another without ever including it?

[Joel Owens]

Each state has different laws.

In GA license disclosure is not required for business cards but is for other items ( contracts ).

Rule 520-1-.09 (1) Media. This rule regulates advertising whether done personally by a licensee or through any media. The term “media” includes, but is not limited to, print, photographic, broadcast, and computer media including, but not limited to, such examples as newspapers, magazines, flyers, posters, business cards, billboards, radio, television, signs (including, but not limited to, office, directional, for sale, for lease, sold, or vehicle signs) , newsletters, and the Internet.

Required license numbers in offers and brokerage engagements. (License numbers are not required in advertisements, but they are not prohibited.)

Rule 520-1-.10 (1.1) License Numbers in Offers and Brokerage Engagements. A licensee preparing or signing a brokerage engagement or an offer to purchase, sell, lease, or exchange real property shall include the license number issued by the Commission of each firm and of each licensee participating in the transaction. The license number shall include both the single alphabetic letter and the six digit number issued by the Commission (for example, for Firms H000001, for brokers B000002, for associate brokers A000003, or for salespersons S000004).

GA Advertising

My guess in CA why they do not put on cards is the public is lazy and will complain less if the number is not listed on there. The state real estate commission for each state has limited staff to go over violations.

It's kind of like someone jaywalking in the street. That isn't going to be the focus for police departments as a top priority. So people might get away with jaywalking everyday more frequently even though there is a law against it.