Final answer:
The correct answer is option a. Real estate agent Keira is considered loyal as she disclosed the referral fee to her clients before recommending an out-of-state agent, maintaining transparency and ethical conduct in the real estate business.
Step-by-step explanation:
The scenario presented involves an ethical consideration within the real estate business. When real estate agent Keira refers her clients to an out-of-state agent and receives a referral fee in return for a client purchasing a home through that agent, the ethics of her behavior depends on her disclosure of the fee. In this instance, Keira discloses the referral fee to her clients before making the recommendation.
This action reflects an adherence to transparency and is considered a best practice within the industry to maintain trust and fulfill her fiduciary duty. Hence, Keira's behavior would be deemed loyal, as she is looking out for her client's interests while also being upfront about her financial incentives.