Realtor Code of Ethics Protecting Consumers for 100 Years

  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. And this year marks the 100th anniversary of the Realtor Code of Ethics.

  Not all real estate 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.  

   Real estate is a business based on trust, and working ethically is a way to build trustworthy relationships. Buying and selling a home is a major, life-altering decision, and buyers and sellers need to be able to depend on their Realtor to guide them through the process with their best interests in mind. The Code helps provide an added layer of security to help Realtors do just that.

  Consisting of seventeen 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 at www.realtor.org/code-of-ethics <http://www.realtor.org/code-of-ethics> .


 

Article Submitted on behalf of
Louis Vinci, President, Buffalo Niagara Association of Realtors
Contact John Leonardi 716-909-6258
 

Debbie Norman
Director of Communications & Corporate Affairs
Buffalo Niagara Association of Realtors
200 John James Audubon Pkwy
Amherst, NY  14228
716-636-9000   fax: 716-636-9121
www.bnar.org    www.2findyourhome.com

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