In real estate transactions, what does the term 'collusion' refer to?

In real estate transactions, the term 'collusion' specifically refers to an illegal agreement made between two or more parties to limit competition or manipulate market conditions—this can involve practices such as price-fixing or agreeing to not compete for certain business opportunities. This unlawful conduct undermines market integrity and can harm consumers by reducing competition and leading to higher prices or limited options.

Understanding collusion is essential for real estate professionals, as it is against the law and can lead to serious consequences, including legal penalties and damage to one's professional reputation. The correct answer emphasizes the importance of fair market practices and maintaining ethical standards in real estate transactions.