Which of the following must a licensee ensure before collecting any fees?

A licensee must obtain written consent from the applicant before collecting any fees. This requirement ensures that the borrower is fully aware of the fees they will be responsible for and provides an explicit acknowledgment of those charges. Written consent is a safeguard for both parties, promoting transparency and establishing a clear understanding of the financial obligations involved in the mortgage process.

Other considerations, such as obtaining approval from a senior loan officer, providing an estimate of fees, or delivering the final loan agreement, may play important roles in the loan process but do not specifically address the necessity of securing explicit consent from the applicant before any fees are collected. Written consent serves as an essential legal protection and ethical practice, reinforcing the importance of clear communication in financial transactions.