Texas · TRECDo transaction coordinators need a license in Texas?
In Texas, TREC says an unlicensed assistant may do administrative work – such as typing contracts or entering data, but only as specifically directed by a license holder – and may set showing appointments. An unlicensed person may not review a contract or facilitate a transaction, show or unlock a property, host an open house, or solicit listings. A TC who reviews contracts and runs files for agents therefore needs a license; brokerage activity without one is a Class A misdemeanor.
What an unlicensed assistant may do (TREC)
Data entry
Input data into a computer or type contracts – only as specifically directed by a license holder.
Appointments
Arrange a showing appointment for the license holder who will show the property.
Advertised facts
Confirm information already advertised about a specific property, such as size, price or offered compensation (Rule 535.5(f)).
Office work
Order supplies, schedule maintenance, bookkeeping (but only a license holder may withdraw or transfer trust account money), training and office administration.
What requires a license (TREC)
- Reviewing a contract or facilitating a transaction.
- Showing a property – including unlocking it or letting a buyer or tenant in – or hosting an open house (Rule 535.4(c)).
- Calling people to find out whether they want to buy, sell or lease – soliciting listings (Rule 535.4(f)).
- Answering questions about a property beyond what was advertised.
- Directing or supervising others who perform brokerage activity (Rule 535.4(e)).
The risk
Brokerage activity without a license – and employing an unlicensed person who does it – is a Class A misdemeanor: a fine up to $4,000, jail up to one year, or both. TREC may also discipline the broker or sales agent who pays or associates with that person.
What this means for a TC in Texas
- Reviewing contracts is the core of most TC work – a Texas TC who does it needs a license, typically a sales agent license sponsored by a broker.
- An unlicensed TC can work as an administrative assistant – data entry as directed, scheduling, document collection – under a broker.
- Agree in writing with the broker which tasks you do and who reviews the contract.
- When unsure, ask TREC at 512-936-3000 before taking the task.
Questions about TC licensing in Texas
Can an unlicensed transaction coordinator review a contract in Texas?
No. TREC states an unlicensed assistant cannot review a contract or facilitate a transaction, but may input data into a contract if specifically directed by a license holder.
Can an unlicensed assistant schedule showings in Texas?
Yes, an unlicensed assistant may arrange a showing appointment for the license holder who will show the property – but may not unlock the door or let the buyer in.
What is the penalty for unlicensed real estate activity in Texas?
A Class A misdemeanor – a fine up to $4,000, jail up to one year, or both – for the unlicensed person and for a broker or agent who employs them.
Can an unlicensed assistant host an open house in Texas?
No. TREC Rule 535.4(c) treats hosting an open house as showing, which requires a license.
Where are the Texas rules on unlicensed assistants?
The Real Estate License Act §§1101.002 and 1101.005 and TREC Rules 535.4 and 535.5, summarized in TREC's 2024 article on unlicensed individuals.
The TC role
In ClosingCode every task has an owner – TC or agent – so steps that need a license stay with the licensed agent, and each completed task records who did it and when.
Start free trialSource: Texas Real Estate Commission, “Can You Use Unlicensed Individuals to Help With Your Texas Real Estate Transactions? It Depends.” (November 17, 2024), citing Occupations Code §§1101.002, 1101.005 and TREC Rules 535.4, 535.5, 535.146.
General information, not legal advice. Ask TREC or a Texas real estate attorney about your own tasks. ClosingCode is software; it is not a law firm or brokerage, and it is not affiliated with TREC.