Some sellers might be unsure or confused about the status of an earlier listing agreement or for some reason might not disclose the existence of a current,
valid exclusive representation agreement, but you still have the obligation to try to find out.
Standard of Practice 16 - 9 says «REALTORS ®, prior to entering into a
representation agreement, have an affirmative obligation to make reasonable efforts to determine whether the prospect is subject to a current,
valid exclusive agreement to provide the same type of real estate service.»