Which buyer would not be considered a protected buyer?

The reasoning behind identifying the buyer who would not be considered a protected buyer is based on the nature of the actions taken by the buyer. A buyer who signs in at an open house is not necessarily afforded the same protections as other types of buyers.

Protected buyers typically refer to individuals who have established a more formal relationship with a real estate professional, which might include first-time homebuyers who are seeking assistance, buyers with pre-approval letters who are serious about their purchasing power, and those referred by real estate agents who are often in a fiduciary relationship.

In contrast, a person who simply signs in at an open house does not create a formal commitment or relationship with the agent or broker hosting the open house. This signing in might indicate interest in a property, but it does not imply that the buyer has engaged in a professional relationship that offers the protections typically afforded to clients or customers in a transaction. Therefore, this buyer lacks the formal representation and the accompanying protections that could come from working closely with an agent or having a clear interest in making a purchase.