House to House
REALTOR Code of Ethics
April 7, 2020
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Working with a REALTOR® gives buyers, sellers and investors many advantages they need to succeed in today’s real estate market. One of those advantages is the assurance that REALTORS® subscribe to a strict Code of Ethics which provides their clients with the highest degree of professionalism, ethics and service.
Not all licensees are REALTORS. Only those who are a member of NAR can use the term “REALTOR” and subscribe to the Code of Ethics as a condition of NAR membership. REALTORS® are the most trusted resource for real estate information and have access to advanced educational opportunities and training in real estate specialties, bringing value to buyers, sellers and investors.
The Code is a comprehensive document spelling out professional responsibilities owed to clients, other Realtors® and the general public. All Realtors® must take comprehensive training on NAR’s Code of Ethics at least once every four years to retain their membership. Adopted in 1913, NAR was only the second trade or business group in the U.S. to adopt mandatory ethical standards for its members.
Consisting of 17 articles organized into duties to clients and customers, the public and REALTORS®, the Code outlines numerous professional responsibilities. For instance, REALTORS® must be honest with all parties in the real estate transaction, including their client, other REALTORS® or real estate agents and their clients. REALTORS® should also be forthcoming with all parties by disclosing all pertinent facts regarding the property and the transaction. If something seems questionable about a property, the REALTOR® is obligated to investigate and make recommendations that buyers consult their own expert and inspectors. In addition, REALTORS® must be truthful in advertising and communications with the public. When distributing newsletters, creating websites or placing advertisements, REALTORS® must represent only their work and not take credit for the work of another real estate professional.
Consumers can read more about the Code of Ethics and can find a summary of the Code that explains how it benefits them.
