Skip to main content

Oregon State Flag An official website of the State of Oregon »

Oregon.gov Homepage

Consumer Information

What the Real Estate Agency regulates

The Oregon Real Estate Agency regulates:

  • The actions of brokers and principal brokers in the course of their professional real estate activity as described in ORS 696.010.
  • The actions of property managers while managing rental real estate as described in ORS 696.010.
  • Unlicensed individuals who collect or attempt to collect a fee for representing a person in a real estate transaction.
  • Unlicensed individuals who collect or attempt to collect a fee for managing another person’s rental property.
  • The activities of escrow agents as defined by ORS 696.505.

The Agency does not regulate: 

  • Contract disputes.
  • Real estate transactions between private parties not involving real estate licensees. 
  • Landlord and tenant laws. 
  • The National Association of Realtors® Code of Ethics
The Agency cannot help you get money back or out of a contract.

If you have a dispute or question in an area of law outside the Agency's jurisdiction, you may need the assistance of a lawyer. The Oregon State Bar has a lawyer referral service.  Lawyers who participate in this service agree to do a first-time in-office consultation for $35 or less.

Outside resources

The following links are provided for your convenience. By selecting a link below, you will leave the Oregon Real Estate Agency's website. 

  • Lead-Based Paint - Lead can cause health problems, especially in young children. If your home was built before 1978, your family may be at risk.
  • Radon Gas Information - Radon is a radioactive gas that is odorless, tasteless, and colorless. It is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers.
  • Smoke Alarm & Carbon Monoxide Alarm Information - The Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal provides guidance on smoke and carbon monoxide alarm laws.
  • Water Well Owner's Handbook (PDF) - This document is for individuals who own, wish to construct, or plan to abandon a water well in Oregon. Helpful to people selling or buying property where wells are located or needed to meet water supply needs.
  • Oregon Landlord Tenant Law - A link to ORS Chapter 90.
  • Buyers and Sellers Advisories - This guide addresses common issues in buying or selling a home from the Oregon Association of REALTORS®.
  • Consumer Protection - The Oregon Department of Justice is committed to ensuring a safe and fair marketplace in Oregon. They prevent fraud, enforce consumer protection laws, invest in consumer education, and help consumers with complaints.
  • Legal Information - The Oregon State Bar provides general legal information on a variety of topics as a public service.
  • Timeshare Exits - The Coalition for Responsible Exits has complied this resource about timeshare exiting.




Resources: