A real estate broker has a fiduciary responsibility to her client, investigating financial references and credit reports. This broker is most likely working for the client as:

The correct answer indicates that the broker is acting as a designated broker, which involves a fiduciary relationship with the client. A designated broker is specifically assigned to oversee transactions and maintain the interests of clients, which includes investigating financial references and credit reports as part of their duties. This role emphasizes the responsibility to advocate for the client's best interests and ensure that all necessary due diligence is performed in the course of a transaction.

In this scenario, the tasks involved reflect a commitment to working closely with the client, which aligns with the fiduciary duties expected of a designated broker. The responsibilities of managing the transaction, ensuring compliance, and protecting the client's interests are key aspects of this position in real estate practice.

The other roles mentioned do not carry the same fiduciary responsibilities towards a client as designated brokers do. For instance, an affiliate typically refers to a salesperson associated with a broker rather than someone who directly manages the relationship and oversight of client transactions. An escrow officer serves in a neutral capacity to facilitate the transaction process rather than work in the best interest of one party. A property manager, while having responsibilities related to property maintenance and tenant relations, does not engage in the same level of fiduciary obligation towards an individual client in the context posed by the question.