Which of the following under RESPA could not provide settlement services for the loan and purchase of an owner-occupied property?

In the context of the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA), the correct choice indicates that someone who holds a power of attorney cannot provide settlement services for the loan and purchase of an owner-occupied property.

RESPA is designed to ensure transparency in the real estate settlement process, requiring that various parties involved in a transaction are appropriately licensed and authorized to perform certain functions. The roles involved in the settlement process are typically filled by professionals who have specific qualifications, such as licensed attorneys, licensed escrow officers, and lenders who actually originate the loans.

While a person holding a power of attorney can represent the buyer or seller in various transactions, they do not have the same certifications or expertise required to provide settlement services. They act on behalf of another person but are not typically engaged in the substantive roles of closing a transaction, which are governed by specific professional standards and licenses.

The other professionals listed, such as lenders, licensed escrow officers, and licensed attorneys, are generally recognized as capable of providing settlement services as they possess the necessary qualifications to fulfill the legal and operational tasks involved in real estate closings. Thus, the option regarding the person holding a power of attorney is the only one that accurately reflects the limitations set by RESPA on who can provide these