If an item is not part of advertising, which option would be considered not advertising?

• A. A private email to a client about personal matters
• B. Verbal marketing to promote a property
• C. A brochure handed to a client
• D. A social media post about a transaction

Answer: (A)

Advertising is any message intended to attract clients or promote a property or real estate services. A private email to a client about personal matters isn’t aimed at selling or promoting a listing or service; it serves personal purpose and remains outside advertising. The other examples are promotional: verbal marketing to promote a property, a brochure handed to a client, and a social media post about a transaction are all public or client-directed messages meant to promote real estate activity. The important point is the intent and audience—private, non-promotional communications stay non-advertising, unless they include promotion.