Which entity would need a real estate broker or salesperson license in South Dakota?

The correct choice indicates that a company assisting individuals in property exchanges for a fee would require a real estate broker or salesperson license in South Dakota. This is because the act of facilitating property exchanges typically involves negotiating sales or leases of real estate and is considered engaging in real estate brokerage activities.

In South Dakota, anyone who performs activities related to the sale, lease, or management of real estate for compensation must be licensed. This ensures that individuals involved in real estate transactions are knowledgeable about the laws, ethics, and practices that govern real estate transactions, providing a level of consumer protection.

In contrast, the other entities listed do not fit the criteria for requiring a real estate license. For instance, a company matching buyers to venues for social events is not involved in real estate transactions and is more aligned with event planning. Similarly, a company offering financial advice on real estate investments does not engage directly in buying, selling, or leasing properties, which means it operates outside the scope of real estate brokerage that mandates licensing. Lastly, a company conducting market research on real estate trends is focused on analysis and information gathering rather than actively participating in the buying or selling of real estate, and therefore, does not require a real estate license.