What common characteristic defines boards governing realty regulations?

The defining characteristic of boards governing realty regulations is public accountability. Boards responsible for overseeing real estate practices and regulations typically operate within a framework that requires transparency and responsiveness to the public. This accountability ensures that their actions and decisions are held to a standard that serves the interests of the public, including consumers and real estate professionals.

These boards are often established by governmental authority, and as such, they are expected to conduct their affairs in a manner that is open and accessible to the public. This means that their meetings, decisions, and regulatory actions can be subject to scrutiny, ensuring that they act in the best interest of the community and uphold ethical standards in real estate practices.

In contrast, while some boards may include licensed real estate professionals, the presence of these professionals is not a guarantee of public accountability. Additionally, boards do not have the authority to issue criminal fines; their powers are generally limited to administrative penalties or sanctions related to licensing and compliance. Therefore, their primary characteristic is their obligation to operate transparently and in the public interest.