REALTOR® Code of Ethics
Part of what distinguishes REALTORS® from other real estate professionals is the REALTOR® Code of Ethics to which members of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® adhere. The Code of Ethics defines the way REALTORS® do business, as well as how REALTORS® interact with clients, customers, the general public and each other. The Code of Ethics of the National Association of REALTORS® establishes objective, enforceable ethical standards governing the professional conduct of REALTORS®. The term REALTOR® has come to connote competency, fairness, and high integrity resulting from adherence to a lofty ideal of moral conduct in business relations. No inducement of profit and no instruction from clients ever can justify departure from this ideal.
Code of Ethics
The Code of Ethics is comprised of 3 sections: Duties to Clients and Customers; Duties to the Public; and Duties to REALTORS®. REALTORS® pledge themselves to protect and promote the interests of their client. REALTORS® pledge themselves to provide equality, competancy in the real estate profession, and to be honest. REALTORS® pledges themselves to maintain positivity and to be honest and respectful to fellow REALTORS®. The REALTOR® Code of Ethics was a precursor to many of today's state real estate licensing laws. Click here to view the Code in its entirety
Ethics Complaints, Arbitration Requests and Related Information
REALTORS® are different from non-member licensees in that they voluntarily subscribe to a strict Code of Ethics. If you believe that a REALTOR® has violated one or more Articles of the Code of Ethics, you can file an ethics complaint alleging a violation(s) through the local association of REALTORS® where the REALTOR® holds membership, or participates in a REALTOR® association-owned or operated MLS. In addition, REALTORS® agree as a condition of membership to arbitrate contractual disputes and specific non-contractual disputes as provided for in Article 17.
Below are several resources to help you understand what filing and processing an ethics complaint and arbitration request entails, and the general process you can expect when filing an ethics complaint or arbitration request with a local association of REALTORS®. Check with the local association of REALTORS® to ensure you have the proper forms required by that association.
Filing an Ethics Complaint
Before you file an Ethics Complaint, read Before you file an Ethics Complaint. For more information on Ethics Complaints, visit http://www.realtor.org/topics/code-of-ethics. When you are ready to file a complaint, contact the board office at (828) 743-0423 or by email at info@hcbor.net.
