Final answer:
Brokers must adhere to ethical guidelines that prohibit misrepresenting properties to maintain trust and integrity in real estate transactions. Omissions in advertisements, like not showing a nearby landfill, can mislead buyers, who should verify such details in person.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the Canons of Professional Ethics, which provide guidelines for the conduct of individuals in various professional roles, a broker should indeed never knowingly misrepresent a property. This ethical mandate is crucial to maintain trust and integrity in the real estate industry. For instance, photographs in real-estate advertisements might showcase a house in an attractive light while omitting less desirable aspects, such as a nearby landfill or factory. A low selling price may hint at such drawbacks, and a potential buyer could verify these suspicions by visiting the location. Ethical practice requires the broker to disclose all material facts about a property, allowing buyers to make informed decisions.