A sales associate can only collect money in connection with a real estate transaction under which condition?

A sales associate is permitted to collect money in connection with a real estate transaction only in the name of their employer, which is typically their broker. This requirement ensures that all funds related to the transaction go through the proper channel and are managed according to established legal and ethical standards. Collecting in the name of the employer helps to maintain transparency and accountability, ensuring that all transactions comply with state laws and brokerage policies.

Funds must be handled in this manner to protect both buyers and sellers and to ensure that proper records are maintained. This structure also safeguards the sales associate from any personal liability concerning the handling of funds, as well as providing a clear framework for trust accounting. Collecting money in any other name, such as that of the buyer, seller, or in their personal name, would violate ethical guidelines and regulatory requirements, which is why those options do not meet the criteria for collecting transaction-related funds.