If a complaint has been filed against you, TREC will notify you by email with instructions for accessing the complaint and submitting your written response through the Real Estate and Appraiser License Management (REALM) Portal.

Most license holders are required to respond within 14 days of receiving the notice. Review your notification carefully for your specific deadline.

Step 1: Read the Complaint

Sign in to your REALM Portal account using the link provided in the email notification.

Click Record Info, then open the Attachments section to review the complaint and any supporting documents submitted by the complainant. Depending on the file size, the complaint may be divided into multiple documents.

Carefully review all materials before preparing your response.

Step 2: Begin Your Response

Return to the email notification and select the link to submit your response. You'll need the PIN included in the email to access the response application.

Step 3: Confirm Your Contact Information

Verify your contact information or update it if necessary. If you are represented by an attorney, you may also provide your attorney's information.

Step 4: Complete the Response

Answer each question completely and accurately. Some response fields have character limitations. Because of these limitations, we recommend preparing your complete response in a separate document and uploading it during the document upload step near the end of the submission process.

If a response field does not allow enough space, you may enter: "Please find my full response attached." Then upload your complete response as an attachment.

If you are a sponsoring broker or designated broker, you will be asked to provide additional information related to your role.

If the complaint names both the business entity and the designated broker as respondents, each is considered a separate party to the complaint. As a result, the portal will require a separate response for each party. Be sure to complete all required responses before submitting your complaint response.

You may identify other individuals who are relevant to the complaint, if applicable.

Step 5: Upload Supporting Documentation

Attach any documents or evidence that support your response, including:

• Written statements
• Contracts
• Emails or text messages
• Photos or videos
• Other relevant records

Providing complete supporting documentation can help enforcement staff evaluate the complaint.

Step 6: Review and Submit

Review your response carefully before submitting it. After submission, you'll receive a confirmation number indicating your response has been successfully received.

After You Submit

TREC enforcement staff may contact you if additional information is needed during the investigation. Because most communication will be sent by email, monitor the email address associated with your account while the complaint remains open.