How long must a licensee keep confidential information obtained from a client?

In the context of real estate transactions, the duty of confidentiality is paramount and extends indefinitely beyond the termination of the professional relationship. This obligation means that any confidential information obtained from a client during the course of their engagement must be protected by the licensee, regardless of whether the transaction has concluded or the relationship has ended.

This long-lasting duty is critical for maintaining trust between clients and real estate professionals. Clients trust licensees with sensitive information, which can include financial details, personal circumstances, or strategic decisions regarding property transactions. In order to uphold the integrity of the profession and to protect client interests, confidentiality must remain in effect permanently, ensuring that even after a professional relationship has dissolved, the information shared continues to be safeguarded.

Other options suggest either a limited timeframe for confidentiality or a complete lack of duty to keep information confidential, both of which misunderstand the ethical standards that govern real estate practice in Arizona. The law clearly stipulates that the duty never expires, thus reinforcing the importance of maintaining client trust over the long term.