PHOTO: LIZ MCDONALD/STUFF Until now, the tribunal, which is part of the Ministry of Justice, could only order compensation when a real estate licensee was found guilty of misconduct, a more serious charge.
Buyers and sellers who encounter unsatisfactory conduct by real estate agents will now be able to seek compensation up to $100,000.
The Real Estate Agents Act has been amended to allow the Real Estate Disciplinary Tribunal to deal with cases of misconduct.
Until now, the tribunal, which is part of the Ministry of Justice, could only order compensation when a real estate licensee was found guilty of misconduct, a more serious charge.
Now, Real Estate Authority assessment committees will be able to refer a case to the disciplinary tribunal to consider awarding compensation when a finding of unsatisfactory conduct has been made.
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