In real estate transactions, which term describes intentional deception to secure unfair or unlawful gain?

The term that accurately describes intentional deception to secure unfair or unlawful gain is fraud. Fraud involves a false representation of information or facts that is made knowingly, with the intention to deceive another party. In the context of real estate transactions, this can include activities such as misrepresenting the value of a property, hiding defects, or falsifying documents. The deceit must be aimed at inducing another party to act or refrain from acting, resulting in potential financial harm or legal repercussions.

While misrepresentation could involve false statements, it does not necessarily require intent to deceive and may occur without the purposeful element inherent in fraud. Coercion refers to forcing someone to act against their will, while manipulation suggests a more subtle or psychological influence that may not involve outright deception. Each of these terms has its nuances, but fraud specifically highlights the element of intentional deceit aimed at gaining an unfair advantage.