In an exclusive brokerage agreement with a tenant client, what must be true in Kentucky?

In Kentucky, an exclusive brokerage agreement with a tenant client must be in writing to be enforceable. This requirement ensures that both the tenant and the broker have a clear understanding of their rights and obligations under the agreement. A written contract provides a document that can be referred to in the event of disputes and protects both parties by clearly outlining the terms of the engagement, such as the duration of the agreement, the scope of services, and any fees involved.

Having a written agreement also aligns with the state’s real estate laws, which often mandate that certain types of contracts, especially those involving exclusive rights to represent a client, must be formalized in writing to protect the interests of all parties involved.

While it's not necessary for the tenant to always provide payment upfront or for just one party to sign for validity, these aspects are not prerequisites for defining the enforceability of an exclusive agreement, making the requirement for a written contract the most appropriate and foundational element in this scenario.