Key Takeaways
- The Kansas Real Estate Commission (KREC) regulates real estate licensees under the Kansas Real Estate Brokers' and Salespersons' License Act
- KREC has five appointed members: four broker members and one public member, serving 4-year terms
- KREC can suspend, revoke, or deny licenses and impose civil penalties for violations
- The Kansas Real Estate Recovery Fund compensates victims of licensee misconduct up to \$20,000 per transaction
- All Kansas real estate licenses expire on June 30 of even-numbered years
Kansas Real Estate Commission (KREC)
The Kansas Real Estate Commission (KREC) is the state agency responsible for protecting Kansas consumers by licensing and regulating real estate brokers, salespersons, and branch offices.
Real Estate SalespersonFree exam prep with practice questions & AI tutor
KREC Structure
Commission Members
KREC consists of five members appointed by the Governor with Senate confirmation:
| Member Type | Number | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Broker members | 4 | Licensed Kansas broker for 5+ years |
| Public member | 1 | Not licensed in real estate |
Members serve 4-year terms and may be reappointed.
Key KREC Functions
| Function | Description |
|---|---|
| Licensing | Process applications, approve exams, issue licenses |
| Education | Approve schools and courses, set education requirements |
| Enforcement | Investigate complaints, conduct audits |
| Discipline | Suspend, revoke, or restrict licenses |
| Recovery Fund | Compensate consumers harmed by licensee conduct |
The Kansas Real Estate Brokers' and Salespersons' License Act
The Kansas Real Estate License Act (K.S.A. 58-3034 et seq.) is the primary law governing real estate licensing in Kansas. Key provisions include:
- Who must be licensed - Definitions of broker and salesperson activities
- Exemptions from licensing - Attorneys, property owners, certain employees
- Prohibited conduct - Actions that violate the law
- Civil penalties - Fines for violations
- Criminal penalties - Practicing without a license is a misdemeanor
KREC Rules and Regulations
KREC adopts rules and regulations (Kansas Administrative Regulations) that implement the License Act. These rules cover:
- License application procedures
- Education requirements and course approval
- Advertising standards
- Trust account requirements
- Disciplinary procedures
Exam Tip: KREC is administratively housed within the Kansas Insurance Department but operates independently in licensing matters.
Kansas Real Estate Recovery Fund
The Real Estate Recovery Fund compensates consumers who suffer actual damages due to the misconduct of a licensed real estate professional.
Fund Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum per transaction | $20,000 |
| Maximum per licensee | $40,000 total |
| Filing deadline | 2 years after final judgment |
| Court judgment required | Yes, must first obtain judgment against licensee |
How the Fund Works
- Consumer is harmed by licensee misconduct
- Consumer sues licensee and obtains court judgment
- Consumer is unable to collect judgment from licensee
- Consumer applies to KREC for payment from Recovery Fund
- KREC pays from fund (if eligible)
- Licensee's license is automatically revoked
Key Point: The Recovery Fund only covers actual damages—not punitive damages, attorney fees, or court costs.
License Expiration and Renewal
Standard Expiration
All Kansas real estate licenses expire on June 30 of even-numbered years:
| License Type | Expiration Date | Term |
|---|---|---|
| Salesperson | June 30, even years | 2 years |
| Broker | June 30, even years | 2 years |
| Branch office | June 30, even years | 2 years |
KREC Contact and Resources
| Resource | Information |
|---|---|
| Website | krec.ks.gov |
| Phone | (785) 296-3411 |
| Main Office | Topeka, Kansas |
| Exam Provider | Pearson VUE |
How many members serve on the Kansas Real Estate Commission?
What is the maximum amount the Kansas Real Estate Recovery Fund will pay per transaction?