Definition: To cancel, rescind, annul, or make void: the permanent cancellation of a person’s license.
Pronunciation: \ˌre-və-ˈkā-shən\
Used in a Sentence: The most severe type of administrative penalty the FREC is authorized to impose is revocation of a license.
License Revocation in Florida Real Estate: A Deep Dive
Understanding license revocation is crucial for those in the Florida real estate industry. It is the most severe disciplinary action by the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC), permanently terminating a licensee's right to practice real estate in the state.
Grounds for License Revocation
There are several grounds for license revocation, each emphasizing the importance of compliance with real estate regulations:
- Escrow Violations: Failing to properly account for or deliver escrow funds entrusted to a broker.
- Criminal Convictions: Being convicted of a felony involving moral turpitude, fraud, or dishonesty.
- Public Records Tampering: Altering public records with false or unauthorized information affecting real property titles.
Types of License Revocation
The FREC can enforce two primary types of revocation:
- Revocation by FREC: Following a formal disciplinary process, the FREC may determine that revocation is warranted due to violations.
- Voluntary Relinquishment for Permanent Revocation: A licensee may choose to surrender their license voluntarily, avoiding a disciplinary hearing and resulting in a "revoked" status.
Impact of License Revocation
Revocation of a broker's license leads to all affiliated sales and broker associates having their licenses become inactive. Affected individuals can remain inactive, transfer to another brokerage, or continue if another qualified broker assumes control.
Revocation Without Prejudice
In rare cases, a license might be revoked "without prejudice" due to an initial error by the Commission. This allows the individual to reapply for a license without penalty for the previous revocation.
Additional Considerations
While the focus here is on administrative aspects, it's important to explore legal challenges and appeals processes available to licensees facing revocation. For more detailed information, consider seeking legal counsel or consulting relevant legal resources.
For further reading on the Florida real estate licensing process and FREC's regulatory role, visit our related articles.
