Which activity is exempt from licensing if conducted for a property owned by an individual or corporation?

The correct answer is rental management because in West Virginia, as well as in many other jurisdictions, individuals or corporations can manage their own properties without the need for a real estate license. This exemption allows property owners to handle the rental processes themselves, which may include showing the property, collecting rent, and managing tenant relationships.

This licensing exemption is put in place to ensure that property owners maintain control over their investments and can make decisions that align with their interests without the added costs and regulatory requirements associated with hiring a licensed property manager. Other activities, such as property sales and brokerage activities, typically require a license because they often involve transactions that affect third parties and require a greater level of expertise and regulatory oversight to protect consumers in the marketplace. Home appraisals also often require a specific license due to the detailed knowledge needed to assess property values fairly and accurately.