[Bertram Anders]

Its true. Anyone can have one. My older characters Avrora lay person of Oghma could have one and so could Azura of the legion
and also my current character Caramiriel.

Why limit to the leaders? I see no conflict. Selling stuff can be a bear and usally most factions go to their qm or faction store.

The former is false, you must own a merchant license and have that be your only faction, or be -the- faction leader of your faction to own one.

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Also, in reference to earlier comments: Server Updates has an article about the merchants selling to the merchant master.

[Animayhem]

The former is false, you must own a merchant license and have that be your only faction, or be -the- faction leader of your faction to own one.

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I decided to test this. I went to the deed master and although it offered me prices
for all homes, it would only allow me to purchase a large home. I asked about a manor but it said I was not noterious enough.

I figured the merchant would be the same way denying me if I did not have note.
I talked to him and said he heard of me if I had $2500. I could purchase a license.
Naturally I did not and he told me to come back when I did.
Does that mean then I am of the highest rank and a leader? I am just listed as full clergy not a high priest of the Oak Hearth.

[Balanor]

A portion of the merchant master conversation that anyone at any level has access to:

PC: What is required to have my own merchant?
Merchant Master: First, you'll need to tell me who you are so I can see if you've made a decent name for yourself as someone the Red Wizards would even consider letting do business in Thay. Also, you can't own a merchant if you're a member of one of the various factions in Thay. However, if you're the faction leader we will allow it.

It has been this way for years. No faction-affiliated PC other than a Red Wizard has ever owned a merchant and any statement that faction members have, or do, own merchants is utterly, completely, and 110% false because the ability to become the leader of any faction has not been implemented.

Try purchasing a merchant license and find out what happens. It’s the same thing that happens when someone tries to access the store of faction they aren’t a member of - they recognize you as a member and berate you for wasting their time.
Try taking a deed from someone and using it. It will tell you that you can’t own a merchant.

If either is not the case, post a bug report.