New York State Real Estate Salesperson Licensing Practice Exam

The principal or client is typically responsible for hiring a real estate agent because they are the individual or entity seeking real estate services, whether it's buying, selling, or leasing property. This relationship is foundational in real estate transactions, as the client provides the agent with the authority to act on their behalf through a listing agreement or buyer's agency agreement.

The client is the party that determines the need for an agent's expertise, guidance, and negotiation skills in navigating the complexities of the real estate market. This includes decision-making on listing prices, marketing strategies, and transaction negotiations—all of which are facilitated by the agent who operates under the fiduciary responsibility to serve the best interests of the client.

The other options, while related to the real estate field, do not play the primary decision-making role in hiring a real estate agent. A broker is responsible for managing agents and their transactions but does not represent the interests of a client unless hired to do so. A mortgage lender provides financing options and advice but does not engage in the hiring process of real estate agents. A property manager is focused on managing rental properties and overseeing tenant relations but does not engage directly in the hiring of agents for sales or purchases of real estate.