NSAR Salesperson Licensing
Actual Exam
Nova Scotia Association of REALTORS (NSAR) / Nova Scotia Real Estate Commission
2026/2027 Academic Year
Verified Questions and Answers for Professional Real Estate Licensing Candidates
150 Questions | 8 Sections | Comprehensive Rationales
Aligned with 2026-2027 NSAR Curriculum Standards and NSREC Licensing Requirements
, NSAR Salesperson Licensing Actual Exam 2026/2027
Section 1: Real Estate Law and the Real Estate Trading Act
Q1: The Nova Scotia Real Estate Commission (NSREC) is best described as which of the following?
A. A government department responsible for municipal property assessments
B. An independent, non-government agency responsible for the regulation of real estate in Nova Scotia
[CORRECT]
C. A provincial court that adjudicates disputes between buyers and sellers
D. A volunteer-run advocacy group for Nova Scotia real estate agents
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The NSREC is an independent, non-government agency responsible for regulating real estate in Nova Scotia. It is not a
government department, court, or volunteer advocacy group. The NSREC handles licensing, discipline, and standards of practice
for real estate professionals under the authority of the Real Estate Trading Act.
Q2: What is the primary role of the Nova Scotia Association of REALTORS (NSAR)?
A. To issue and revoke real estate licences in Nova Scotia
B. To promote higher industry standards, provide educational opportunities, and assure the public of high
professional standards [CORRECT]
C. To enforce municipal zoning bylaws and building codes
D. To manage the provincial land registration system
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: NSAR is an organization committed to promoting higher industry standards, providing educational opportunities, and
assuring the general public of high professional standards. Unlike the NSREC, NSAR does not issue licences or enforce
regulations; it focuses on education, advocacy, and professional development for its members.
Q3: Which piece of legislation sets out the rules, licensing requirements, and discipline procedures for real
estate professionals in Nova Scotia?
A. The Nova Scotia Real Estate Association Act
B. The Real Estate Trading Act [CORRECT]
C. The Municipal Government Act
D. The Matrimonial Property Act
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The Real Estate Trading Act is the primary legislation that sets out rules, licensing, and discipline procedures for real
estate professionals in Nova Scotia. The Municipal Government Act deals with municipal governance including Deed Transfer Tax,
while the Matrimonial Property Act governs property rights between spouses.
Q4: According to NSREC Bylaw Article 3, what is required regarding disclosure to clients?
A. Verbal disclosure is sufficient as long as the client acknowledges it
B. Disclosure must be in writing and the salesperson must attempt to obtain acknowledgement from the client
or party [CORRECT]
C. Disclosure is only required when specifically requested by the client
D. Disclosure may be provided after the transaction has closed
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: NSREC Bylaw Article 3 sets out disclosure requirements in the Standards of Business Practice. Disclosure must be in
writing, and the salesperson must attempt to obtain acknowledgement from the client or party. Verbal disclosure alone is
insufficient, and disclosure cannot be deferred until after closing.
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, NSAR Salesperson Licensing Actual Exam 2026/2027
Q5: A buyer is purchasing a home in Halifax for $450,000. Which statement regarding Deed Transfer Tax is
correct?
A. The seller is responsible for paying the Deed Transfer Tax
B. The buyer must pay the Deed Transfer Tax pursuant to the Municipal Government Act, which may charge
up to 1.5% of the property value [CORRECT]
C. Deed Transfer Tax does not apply to residential property transactions under $500,000
D. The Deed Transfer Tax is paid to the Nova Scotia Real Estate Commission
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Deed Transfer Tax is paid by the buyer of the property pursuant to the Municipal Government Act. Municipalities in
Nova Scotia may charge up to 1.5% of the value of the property being transferred. The only exception is a transfer for no
consideration, such as a gift. The tax is paid to the municipality, not to NSREC.
Q6: Under what circumstance would a property transfer be exempt from Deed Transfer Tax?
A. When the property is being transferred between two unrelated parties at fair market value
B. When the property is a newly constructed home purchased from a builder
C. When the transfer is for no consideration, such as a gift [CORRECT]
D. When the buyer is a first-time home purchaser
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The only exception to Deed Transfer Tax is a transfer for no consideration, meaning a gift. Transfers between unrelated
parties at fair market value, new construction purchases, and first-time home purchases are all subject to Deed Transfer Tax. This
exemption is established under the Municipal Government Act.
Q7: What defines a Matrimonial Home under Nova Scotia law?
A. Any property owned by either spouse before the marriage
B. A home designated as the family residence pursuant to the Matrimonial Property Act [CORRECT]
C. A property that is registered in both spouses' names
D. The primary residence of a married couple located within Halifax Regional Municipality
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A Matrimonial Home is defined as a home designated as the family residence pursuant to the Matrimonial Property Act.
It is not dependent on whose name is on title or where the property is located. The designation triggers specific legal protections,
including the requirement for spousal consent for transfer or mortgaging.
Q8: A married homeowner wishes to sell their property, which is the family residence. What is required before
the sale can proceed?
A. Only the signature of the title holder is required
B. Spousal consent is required for the transfer and/or mortgaging of a matrimonial home [CORRECT]
C. A court order must be obtained before listing the property
D. The spouse must be a licensed real estate salesperson to participate in the transaction
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Under the Matrimonial Property Act, spousal consent is required for the transfer and/or mortgaging of a matrimonial
home. Even if only one spouse holds title, the other spouse's consent must be obtained. Failure to obtain this consent can render the
transaction voidable and expose the salesperson and brokerage to liability.
Q9: What does 'title' refer to in Nova Scotia real estate?
A. The physical deed document stored at the Registry of Deeds
B. Evidence by which an owner has lawful ownership, secured by a deed [CORRECT]
C. The municipal tax assessment assigned to a property
D. The listing agreement between a seller and a brokerage
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, NSAR Salesperson Licensing Actual Exam 2026/2027
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Title refers to evidence by which an owner has lawful ownership, secured by a deed. It is not merely the physical
document, the tax assessment, or a listing agreement. Title represents the legal right of ownership that is recorded and protected
through the deed registration system.
Q10: What is the purpose of a title search?
A. To determine the current market value of the property
B. To confirm legal ownership and identify any claims against the property such as liens, easements, and
encumbrances [CORRECT]
C. To verify that the property meets current building code requirements
D. To assess the condition of the physical structure of the property
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A title search confirms legal ownership and any claims against the property, including liens, easements, and
encumbrances. It does not determine market value, verify building code compliance, or assess physical condition. It is a critical
step in due diligence to ensure the seller has the right to transfer clear title.
Q11: A buyer purchases a newly constructed condominium from a builder. Which statement regarding HST is
correct?
A. HST applies to the purchase of new construction but not to most resale homes [CORRECT]
B. HST applies to all real estate transactions equally in Nova Scotia
C. HST never applies to residential real estate transactions in Nova Scotia
D. HST is only payable on the land portion of a new home purchase
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: HST (Harmonized Sales Tax) applies to new home purchases and real estate-related services, but not to most resale
homes. This is a key distinction in Nova Scotia real estate practice. Buyers of new construction must budget for HST, while buyers
of resale properties generally do not pay HST on the purchase price.
Q12: As of September 1, 2025, what is the English Language Proficiency Requirement (ELPR) for NSAR
Salesperson Licensing Course registration?
A. Candidates must achieve an overall score of 7 on the IELTS academic test
B. Candidates must achieve level 7 or higher on each of the four components of the CELPIP-G test on the same
test score report [CORRECT]
C. Candidates must pass a written English exam administered by NSAR
D. There is no English language proficiency requirement for NSAR course registration
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Effective September 1, 2025, candidates must achieve level 7 or higher on each of the four components (reading,
writing, speaking, and listening) of the CELPIP-G test on the same test score report to register for the Salesperson Licensing
Course. This ensures all candidates can effectively communicate in English during real estate transactions.
Q13: A salesperson is preparing to list a property and discovers the home was previously used as a
methamphetamine lab. The seller instructs the salesperson not to disclose this. What should the salesperson do?
A. Follow the seller's instructions and not disclose, as the salesperson owes loyalty to the seller
B. Advise the seller of their disclosure obligations and, if the seller refuses, consider withdrawal from the listing
[CORRECT]
C. Disclose the information directly to all potential buyers without informing the seller
D. Report the matter only to NSREC and take no further action
Correct Answer: B
Page 4
Actual Exam
Nova Scotia Association of REALTORS (NSAR) / Nova Scotia Real Estate Commission
2026/2027 Academic Year
Verified Questions and Answers for Professional Real Estate Licensing Candidates
150 Questions | 8 Sections | Comprehensive Rationales
Aligned with 2026-2027 NSAR Curriculum Standards and NSREC Licensing Requirements
, NSAR Salesperson Licensing Actual Exam 2026/2027
Section 1: Real Estate Law and the Real Estate Trading Act
Q1: The Nova Scotia Real Estate Commission (NSREC) is best described as which of the following?
A. A government department responsible for municipal property assessments
B. An independent, non-government agency responsible for the regulation of real estate in Nova Scotia
[CORRECT]
C. A provincial court that adjudicates disputes between buyers and sellers
D. A volunteer-run advocacy group for Nova Scotia real estate agents
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The NSREC is an independent, non-government agency responsible for regulating real estate in Nova Scotia. It is not a
government department, court, or volunteer advocacy group. The NSREC handles licensing, discipline, and standards of practice
for real estate professionals under the authority of the Real Estate Trading Act.
Q2: What is the primary role of the Nova Scotia Association of REALTORS (NSAR)?
A. To issue and revoke real estate licences in Nova Scotia
B. To promote higher industry standards, provide educational opportunities, and assure the public of high
professional standards [CORRECT]
C. To enforce municipal zoning bylaws and building codes
D. To manage the provincial land registration system
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: NSAR is an organization committed to promoting higher industry standards, providing educational opportunities, and
assuring the general public of high professional standards. Unlike the NSREC, NSAR does not issue licences or enforce
regulations; it focuses on education, advocacy, and professional development for its members.
Q3: Which piece of legislation sets out the rules, licensing requirements, and discipline procedures for real
estate professionals in Nova Scotia?
A. The Nova Scotia Real Estate Association Act
B. The Real Estate Trading Act [CORRECT]
C. The Municipal Government Act
D. The Matrimonial Property Act
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The Real Estate Trading Act is the primary legislation that sets out rules, licensing, and discipline procedures for real
estate professionals in Nova Scotia. The Municipal Government Act deals with municipal governance including Deed Transfer Tax,
while the Matrimonial Property Act governs property rights between spouses.
Q4: According to NSREC Bylaw Article 3, what is required regarding disclosure to clients?
A. Verbal disclosure is sufficient as long as the client acknowledges it
B. Disclosure must be in writing and the salesperson must attempt to obtain acknowledgement from the client
or party [CORRECT]
C. Disclosure is only required when specifically requested by the client
D. Disclosure may be provided after the transaction has closed
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: NSREC Bylaw Article 3 sets out disclosure requirements in the Standards of Business Practice. Disclosure must be in
writing, and the salesperson must attempt to obtain acknowledgement from the client or party. Verbal disclosure alone is
insufficient, and disclosure cannot be deferred until after closing.
Page 2
, NSAR Salesperson Licensing Actual Exam 2026/2027
Q5: A buyer is purchasing a home in Halifax for $450,000. Which statement regarding Deed Transfer Tax is
correct?
A. The seller is responsible for paying the Deed Transfer Tax
B. The buyer must pay the Deed Transfer Tax pursuant to the Municipal Government Act, which may charge
up to 1.5% of the property value [CORRECT]
C. Deed Transfer Tax does not apply to residential property transactions under $500,000
D. The Deed Transfer Tax is paid to the Nova Scotia Real Estate Commission
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Deed Transfer Tax is paid by the buyer of the property pursuant to the Municipal Government Act. Municipalities in
Nova Scotia may charge up to 1.5% of the value of the property being transferred. The only exception is a transfer for no
consideration, such as a gift. The tax is paid to the municipality, not to NSREC.
Q6: Under what circumstance would a property transfer be exempt from Deed Transfer Tax?
A. When the property is being transferred between two unrelated parties at fair market value
B. When the property is a newly constructed home purchased from a builder
C. When the transfer is for no consideration, such as a gift [CORRECT]
D. When the buyer is a first-time home purchaser
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The only exception to Deed Transfer Tax is a transfer for no consideration, meaning a gift. Transfers between unrelated
parties at fair market value, new construction purchases, and first-time home purchases are all subject to Deed Transfer Tax. This
exemption is established under the Municipal Government Act.
Q7: What defines a Matrimonial Home under Nova Scotia law?
A. Any property owned by either spouse before the marriage
B. A home designated as the family residence pursuant to the Matrimonial Property Act [CORRECT]
C. A property that is registered in both spouses' names
D. The primary residence of a married couple located within Halifax Regional Municipality
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A Matrimonial Home is defined as a home designated as the family residence pursuant to the Matrimonial Property Act.
It is not dependent on whose name is on title or where the property is located. The designation triggers specific legal protections,
including the requirement for spousal consent for transfer or mortgaging.
Q8: A married homeowner wishes to sell their property, which is the family residence. What is required before
the sale can proceed?
A. Only the signature of the title holder is required
B. Spousal consent is required for the transfer and/or mortgaging of a matrimonial home [CORRECT]
C. A court order must be obtained before listing the property
D. The spouse must be a licensed real estate salesperson to participate in the transaction
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Under the Matrimonial Property Act, spousal consent is required for the transfer and/or mortgaging of a matrimonial
home. Even if only one spouse holds title, the other spouse's consent must be obtained. Failure to obtain this consent can render the
transaction voidable and expose the salesperson and brokerage to liability.
Q9: What does 'title' refer to in Nova Scotia real estate?
A. The physical deed document stored at the Registry of Deeds
B. Evidence by which an owner has lawful ownership, secured by a deed [CORRECT]
C. The municipal tax assessment assigned to a property
D. The listing agreement between a seller and a brokerage
Page 3
, NSAR Salesperson Licensing Actual Exam 2026/2027
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Title refers to evidence by which an owner has lawful ownership, secured by a deed. It is not merely the physical
document, the tax assessment, or a listing agreement. Title represents the legal right of ownership that is recorded and protected
through the deed registration system.
Q10: What is the purpose of a title search?
A. To determine the current market value of the property
B. To confirm legal ownership and identify any claims against the property such as liens, easements, and
encumbrances [CORRECT]
C. To verify that the property meets current building code requirements
D. To assess the condition of the physical structure of the property
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A title search confirms legal ownership and any claims against the property, including liens, easements, and
encumbrances. It does not determine market value, verify building code compliance, or assess physical condition. It is a critical
step in due diligence to ensure the seller has the right to transfer clear title.
Q11: A buyer purchases a newly constructed condominium from a builder. Which statement regarding HST is
correct?
A. HST applies to the purchase of new construction but not to most resale homes [CORRECT]
B. HST applies to all real estate transactions equally in Nova Scotia
C. HST never applies to residential real estate transactions in Nova Scotia
D. HST is only payable on the land portion of a new home purchase
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: HST (Harmonized Sales Tax) applies to new home purchases and real estate-related services, but not to most resale
homes. This is a key distinction in Nova Scotia real estate practice. Buyers of new construction must budget for HST, while buyers
of resale properties generally do not pay HST on the purchase price.
Q12: As of September 1, 2025, what is the English Language Proficiency Requirement (ELPR) for NSAR
Salesperson Licensing Course registration?
A. Candidates must achieve an overall score of 7 on the IELTS academic test
B. Candidates must achieve level 7 or higher on each of the four components of the CELPIP-G test on the same
test score report [CORRECT]
C. Candidates must pass a written English exam administered by NSAR
D. There is no English language proficiency requirement for NSAR course registration
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Effective September 1, 2025, candidates must achieve level 7 or higher on each of the four components (reading,
writing, speaking, and listening) of the CELPIP-G test on the same test score report to register for the Salesperson Licensing
Course. This ensures all candidates can effectively communicate in English during real estate transactions.
Q13: A salesperson is preparing to list a property and discovers the home was previously used as a
methamphetamine lab. The seller instructs the salesperson not to disclose this. What should the salesperson do?
A. Follow the seller's instructions and not disclose, as the salesperson owes loyalty to the seller
B. Advise the seller of their disclosure obligations and, if the seller refuses, consider withdrawal from the listing
[CORRECT]
C. Disclose the information directly to all potential buyers without informing the seller
D. Report the matter only to NSREC and take no further action
Correct Answer: B
Page 4
