Under what circumstances may a Realtor reveal confidential information?

The correct answer is that a Realtor may reveal confidential information when presented with a court order. This scenario is important because a court order is a legal directive that can compel a Realtor to disclose specific information. In such cases, the Realtor is legally obligated to comply with the law and provide the requested information, regardless of the confidentiality agreements in place with a client. Courts typically require certain disclosures, particularly if the information is pertinent to a legal proceeding.

The other circumstances do not hold up as justifications for disclosing confidential information. Informing a client does not inherently grant the authority to share confidential information; instead, it requires informed consent, which is a specific, explicit agreement from the client concerning what information can be shared and with whom. Requesting information from a prospective buyer or during open house events does not provide legitimate grounds for disclosure either, as confidentiality obligations persist unless waived by the client or under legal obligation, such as a court order.