What should a broker do if a seller receives a written offer below the listing price?

When a seller receives a written offer below the listing price, the broker's responsibility is to present the offer to the seller. This is rooted in the fiduciary duty and ethical obligations that brokers have towards their clients. Transparency and communication are essential in the real estate transaction process, and the seller deserves to know all offers made on their property, regardless of whether the offer meets their expectations.

By presenting the offer, the broker allows the seller to make an informed decision on how to proceed. This could include accepting the offer, countering the lower price, or rejecting it altogether. The broker’s role is to facilitate the seller's decision-making by providing all relevant information and options.

Ignoring the offer would deprive the seller of that opportunity, and not showing it while countering goes against the principle of keeping the seller fully informed. Additionally, consulting with the buyer before presenting the offer could lead to ethical concerns, as the broker must prioritize the client's interests rather than those of a potential buyer.