Pass New York
Open navigation
Back to all terms
AgencySubject 2 of 19

First substantive contact

The point at which a conversation becomes specific enough that agency disclosure may be required for the recipient and role involved.

Direct answer

What does First substantive contact mean?

The point at which a conversation becomes specific enough that agency disclosure may be required for the recipient and role involved.

Exam cue: Do not apply one timing rule to everyone. Section 443 sets different timing for listing agents, buyer or tenant agents and contacts with the opposite side.

What does it look like in a question?

New York example

A seller's agent begins discussing a buyer's needs and a particular residential transaction with that buyer.

Common exam trap

What should you not confuse it with?

A greeting or basic factual exchange is not automatically substantive, and first substantive contact is not every disclosure deadline.

Related agency terms

AccountingThe fiduciary duty to safeguard and properly account for money, documents and property entrusted to the agent.AgencyA relationship in which an agent is authorized to act for a principal and owes duties within that relationship.Broker's agentAn agent who cooperates with or is engaged by another agent without becoming a subagent of that agent's principal.ClientA principal who is represented by a real estate agent.CustomerA person who receives services from a licensee but is not represented by that licensee as an agent.Designated sales agentA sales agent appointed within a disclosed dual agency arrangement to advocate for one principal in negotiations.
Sources used2 references with section locators

The curriculum citation confirms exam scope. Definition and rule citations support the explanation itself. Links and locators were checked on August 26, 2026.

Keep learning

Put the term back into its full subject.

A definition helps with recall. The subject guide shows how the rule interacts with documents, scenarios, calculations and practice questions.

Study Law of Agency Try free practice