Talking to your clients about the OACIQ: An obligation and a benchmark of professionalism

Since June 2022, real estate brokers have had a duty to inform their clients of the existence and mission of the Organisme d'autoréglementation du courtage immobilier du Québec (OACIQ). There are three ways to fulfil this obligation, which you can find here.

Beyond the regulatory aspect, there are many advantages to talking about the OACIQ.

Since performing real estate brokerage acts is reserved for OACIQ licensees, it is crucial for a broker to stand out by his skills, ethics and commitment to protecting his clients' interests. One of the most effective ways to do so is to talk about the OACIQ.

1. Showing professionalism

The role of a real estate broker is not limited to facilitating the purchase or sale of real estate. He is also responsible for advising and providing accurate and relevant information to his clients. Mentioning the OACIQ from the beginning of interactions shows the broker's commitment to following the highest industry standards.

The OACIQ is the authority of real estate brokerage in Québec. It protects the public by enforcing the Real Estate Brokerage Act and oversees brokers' activities by training and inspecting them. Informing clients about the OACIQ shows that the real estate broker is well informed and adheres to the best industry practices.

2. Improving reputation and ethics

Reputation is one of the most valuable assets in a real estate broker's career. The broker shows transparency, which is one of the pillars of professional ethics, when talking about the OACIQ. When clients know that a regulator's guidelines and regulations are being followed, it strengthens integrity perception.

What's more, by promoting the OACIQ, real estate brokers help educate the public on their rights and the organization's protection role. This ethical approach shows that clients' interests are at the heart of the real estate broker's concerns.

3. Increasing trust

Trust is essential in any business relationship, and even more so in real estate where large amounts of money and life decisions are at stake. Talking about the OACIQ is reassuring because clients know they are protected by a strict regulatory framework, implemented through the enforcement of the Real Estate Brokerage Act. Clients understand that real estate brokers are required to meet high standards to ensure their protection. This increased trust facilitates transactions and enhances client satisfaction.

Looking for ideas to start talking about the OACIQ to your clients? We have prepared two script examples that may inspire you. 

You prefer to send information by email?  Here is a link to a simplified text presenting the OACIQ that you may use in your discussions with clients.