Key Takeaways
- The Maine Real Estate Commission (MREC) regulates real estate licensees under the Maine Real Estate License Law
- MREC operates under the Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation (OPOR)
- The Commission consists of five members appointed by the Governor: three licensed brokers and two public members
- MREC has authority to investigate complaints, conduct hearings, and take disciplinary action
- Maine requires 55 hours of pre-license education for salesperson applicants
Maine Real Estate Commission (MREC)
The Maine Real Estate Commission (MREC) is the state agency responsible for licensing, regulating, and overseeing real estate professionals in Maine under the Maine Real Estate License Law.
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MREC Structure and Authority
Administrative Oversight
MREC operates under the Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation (OPOR), which is part of the Maine Department of Professional and Financial Regulation.
| Level | Entity |
|---|---|
| Department | Department of Professional and Financial Regulation |
| Office | Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation (OPOR) |
| Board | Maine Real Estate Commission (MREC) |
Commission Members
MREC consists of five members appointed by the Governor:
| Member Type | Number | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Licensed brokers | 3 | Active Maine broker license |
| Public members | 2 | Not licensed in real estate |
Members serve three-year staggered terms and may serve no more than two consecutive terms.
Key MREC Functions
| Function | Description |
|---|---|
| Licensing | Process applications, approve education providers, issue licenses |
| Education | Set education requirements, approve courses and schools |
| Enforcement | Investigate complaints, conduct audits of trust accounts |
| Discipline | Suspend, revoke, or deny licenses; impose fines |
| Rulemaking | Adopt administrative rules implementing the License Law |
Maine Real Estate License Law
The Maine Real Estate License Law (Title 32, Chapter 114) is the primary statute governing real estate licensing in Maine. Key provisions include:
- Who must be licensed - Definitions of broker and salesperson activities
- Exemptions - Attorneys, property owners, certain employees
- Prohibited conduct - Actions that violate the law
- Disciplinary actions - Grounds for suspension or revocation
- Trust fund handling - Requirements for client funds
MREC Administrative Rules
MREC adopts administrative rules (Chapter 390) that implement the License Law. These rules cover:
- License application procedures
- Education requirements and course approval
- Advertising standards
- Trust account requirements
- Agency disclosure procedures
Exam Tip: MREC can impose administrative penalties and revoke licenses. Know the difference between statutory requirements (the law) and administrative rules (MREC regulations).
Real Estate Recovery Fund
Maine does not currently have a Real Estate Recovery Fund like some other states. Instead, consumers who suffer losses due to licensee misconduct must pursue civil remedies through the court system.
Consumer Protection Options
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Civil lawsuit | Sue the licensee for damages |
| MREC complaint | File complaint for disciplinary action |
| Errors & Omissions insurance | Broker's E&O policy may cover claims |
| Bond (if applicable) | Some brokers maintain surety bonds |
Key Point: Unlike states with recovery funds, Maine consumers cannot be compensated from a state fund. This makes broker supervision and licensee conduct especially important.
MREC Contact Information
| Resource | Information |
|---|---|
| Website | maine.gov/pfr/professionallicensing |
| Main Office | Augusta, Maine |
| Phone | (207) 624-8603 |
| Online System | Maine Professional Licensing Portal |
How many members serve on the Maine Real Estate Commission?
Under what state office does the Maine Real Estate Commission operate?