Which of the following is NOT a reason for market research in real estate?

The correct answer highlights a concept that is fundamentally inconsistent with ethical practices in real estate market research. Market research is primarily aimed at providing clear and truthful insights into the property market, guiding decisions that can benefit both real estate professionals and their clients.

Determining the direction of the market involves analyzing trends, consumer behavior, and economic conditions to inform buying and selling strategies. Identifying new market opportunities allows real estate professionals to uncover potential areas for growth, helping them to serve their clients better and respond to market demands. Monitoring current marketing performance is essential for evaluating how effectively resources are being allocated and determining the impact of marketing strategies.

On the other hand, increasing sales prices without justification undermines the integrity of the market and can lead to significant issues such as legal consequences or reputational harm. This behavior is not aligned with the principles of transparency and fairness that are vital in real estate practices, making it an inappropriate reason for conducting market research. Therefore, the option about increasing sales prices without justification stands out as not aligned with the legitimate purposes of market research.