In Montana, when must a real estate licensee disclose their agency relationship?

In Montana, a real estate licensee is required to disclose their agency relationship at the first substantive contact with a prospective client. This is crucial because it establishes transparency and ensures that the prospective client understands the nature of the relationship they are entering into with the licensee.

Agency disclosure is intended to protect the interests of all parties involved, helping potential clients understand whether the licensee represents them, the seller, or another party in the transaction. By disclosing this information upfront, the licensee enables the client to make informed decisions about their representation and the advice they may receive.

While it's important for a licensee to also engage in disclosure during other stages of the transaction, such as listing the property or during property showings, the legal requirement specifically focuses on the initial substantive contact as the critical moment for establishing that relationship. This ensures clarity from the outset, allowing clients to feel secure in the guidance they are provided throughout the real estate process. Disclosures made at closing or only later in the process do not fulfill the obligation to inform clients early on about the nature of the agency relationship.