A seller who is selling their property "For sale by owner" is paying an advertising fee to a real estate magazine company to advertise their property for sale. Would the company be required to have a real estate license?

The correct answer reflects the understanding that companies that focus exclusively on advertising real estate properties for sale and are only collecting an advertising fee, rather than engaging in real estate brokerage activities, are not required to hold a real estate license. Their role is limited to providing a platform for sellers to showcase their properties, which does not involve negotiating sales or facilitating transactions.

In Georgia, the real estate license law typically requires individuals and companies involved in real estate transactions—such as showing properties, negotiating terms, or collecting commissions—to be licensed. However, those who are simply providing advertising services, like a magazine company charging a fee for a listing, are operating within a different context and fall outside the purview of the licensing requirements. Thus, as long as they are not involved in any activities that would classify them as brokers, they are exempt from needing a license.

Additionally, options suggesting that obtaining a license is necessary because of the nature of the fee or that exemptions are based on the amount of the fee listed are misinterpreting the law. The key factor here is the nature of the services being provided and the type of engagement with real estate transactions.