The REALTOR® Code of Ethics

 

 

…The Code of Ethics is a document that was created to preserve an ethical relationship between REALTORS® in their day-to-day business and also between REALTORS® and their customers and clients.

 

The business of real estate is a profession. Dedicated professionals commit themselves to searching for the highest and best use of real estate. That requires the highest and best measure of professional responsibility. For that commitment to be successful, the REALTOR® must be dedicated to ethical behavior with all parties to every transaction.

 

The Code of Ethics echoes the requirement of the Code of Service to the public. If service to the public is the “end,” then the Code of Ethics is a “means” to that end.

 

As a member of the public sector, when you choose to work with an agent who belongs to the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®, you have the security of knowing that you have recourse, if you feel that you have not been treated fairly. National, State, and local associations are available and willing to assist you.

CODE OF ETHICS and STANDARDS OF PRACTICE of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

PREAMBLE…

Under all is the land. Upon its wise utilization and widely allocated ownership depend the survival and growth of free institutions and of our civilization. The REALTORS® free institutions and of our civilization. The REALTORS® should recognize that the interests of the nation and its citizens require the highest and best use of the land and the widest distribution of land ownership. They require the creation of adequate housing, the building of functioning cities, the development of productive industries and farms, and the preservation of a healthful environment.

Such interests impose obligations beyond those of ordinary commerce. They impose grave social responsibility and a patriotic duty to which REALTORS® should dedicate themselves, and for which they should be diligent in preparing themselves. REALTORS® therefore, are zealous to maintain and improve the standards of their calling and share with their fellow REALTOR®S a common responsibility for its integrity and honor. 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 can every justify departure from this ideal.

In the interpretation of this obligation, REALTORS® can take no safer guide than that which has been handed down through the centuries, embodied in the Golden Rule, “Whatsoever ye would that others should do to you, do ye even so to them.”

Accepting this standard as their own, REALTORS® pledge to observe its spirit in all of their activities and to conduct their business in accordance with the tenets set forth:

BASIC PRINCIPLES OF CODE OF ETHICS

 

1.Be informed and contribute responsibly to public affairs 2.Be informed to advise your clients properly 3.Eliminate practices that damage or discredit the profession 4.Urge the exclusive listing of property 5.Share your experience and expertise with other REALTORS® 6.Seek no unfair advantage of other REALTORS® 7.Protect your client’s interests but be fair to all parties 8.Accept compensation form only one party unless disclosed to all parties 9.Avoid exaggeration, misrepresentation, and concealment of pertinent facts 10.Provide equal service to all clients and customers 11.Provide competent service in your field of endeavor 12.Disclose present or contemplated interest in any property to all parties 13.When buying or selling, make your position or interest known 14.Arbitrate disputes with other REALTORS® 15.Participate in enforcement of the Code 16.Avoid side deals without your client’s consent 17.Avoid the unauthorized practice of law 18.Place entrusted funds in a special account 19.Present a true picture in your advertising 20.Ensure that transactional details are in writing 21.Ensure that transactional details are in writing 22.Respect the agency of other REALTORS® 23.Cooperate with other real estate professionals to promote your client’s interest 24.Refrain from public disparagement

 

Sherman & Co.
819 Water, Suite 170
Kerrville, TX 78028
[email protected]

Information Herein Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed - licensed in the state of Texas