What should a broker do if an oral offer is received followed by a better written offer?

The most appropriate course of action for the broker in this scenario is to submit both offers, as this allows the seller to make a fully informed decision. A broker has a fiduciary duty to represent the best interests of their client, which includes providing all available options for consideration. By presenting both the oral offer and the better written offer, the seller can weigh the merits and details of each, ensuring they are making the best choice based on the available information. Transparency in the process also builds trust between the broker and the seller.

Submitting only the better written offer would deprive the seller of knowledge concerning the initial oral offer and could lead to missed opportunities. Ignoring the oral offer altogether does not align with the standards of conduct expected of a real estate professional, as it neglects the responsibility to fully inform the client. Consulting with the seller before submitting offers may delay the process and is less efficient, as the broker is already in possession of both offers and can provide them for the seller’s consideration without unnecessary delays.