Georgia House Bill HB471

Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/23
• Report Pass: 3/1/23

Caption

Fair Business Practices Act; add example of an unfair practice regarding brokerage engagements

Impact

If enacted, HB 471 would enhance consumer protection by clearly defining what constitutes unfair practices in brokerage arrangements and unsolicited solicitations. Specifically, the changes would enable consumers to better recognize unsolicited offers for real estate, potentially reducing confusion and frustration in dealing with unsolicited communications. The bill aims to minimize deceptive practices that may exploit unsuspecting consumers in the real estate market by ensuring they are well-informed of their rights when receiving such communications.

Summary

House Bill 471 seeks to amend the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, particularly the 'Fair Business Practices Act,' by introducing a new example of an unfair or deceptive practice in relation to brokerage engagements and options to enter into these engagements. This bill aims to set forth clearer standards regarding unsolicited written inquiries or mailings expressing interest in buying real property. It enforces a requirement for such solicitations to include conspicuous notices informing recipients of their non-obligation to respond. This is intended to protect consumers from misleading solicitations associated with real estate transactions.

Contention

Discussion surrounding HB 471 may highlight concerns over the balance between consumer protection and the potential hindrance of legitimate business practices in real estate. Proponents argue that the bill is necessary to combat misleading sales tactics in an increasingly aggressive real estate market. Conversely, some stakeholders may view the enhanced restrictions as overly burdensome for legitimate brokers and may hinder their ability to reach potential clients effectively. The legislative discourse will likely consider whether the bill's provisions proportionately address consumer needs without compromising effective marketing practices.