What is a key characteristic of a salesperson in real estate?

A key characteristic of a salesperson in real estate is that they work under a broker's supervision. This relationship is fundamental to the structure of real estate practice in Michigan and many other jurisdictions. Salespersons are licensed individuals who engage in the sale, purchase, or leasing of properties on behalf of clients, but they are required to operate under the guidance of a broker who holds a higher-level license. This supervision ensures compliance with legal and ethical standards and provides a framework for transactions, as brokers are responsible for the actions of their salespersons.

While ownership of properties and independent contractor status might describe aspects of a salesperson's role, they are not defining characteristics. Salespersons can operate as independent contractors, which allows them flexibility in their work arrangements, but they must still adhere to the supervision of a broker. The ability to write appraisals, while useful, is not a core characteristic of a real estate salesperson, as appraisal is a specialized field requiring additional qualifications and licensing separate from the salesperson's role. Thus, the correct choice highlights the essential relationship between salespersons and brokers in the real estate industry.