What is the Realtor® Code of Ethics?

As a Rhode Island realtor, I am bound by a code of ethics that governs my behavior in the real estate industry. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) created this code of ethics, which all realtors must follow to maintain their membership in the organization. In this blog post, I will explain what the realtor code of ethics is, why it is important to the profession, and the consequences of violating the code.

The realtor code of ethics is a set of rules and guidelines that real estate professionals must follow to maintain a high standard of conduct in their dealings with clients, customers, and other real estate professionals. The code covers a wide range of topics, including fairness, honesty, integrity, and professionalism. It sets forth ethical standards that all realtors must adhere to, regardless of their level of experience or area of expertise.

The code of ethics is important to the real estate profession for several reasons. First, it ensures that realtors are held to a high standard of professionalism and conduct. This helps to maintain the public's trust in the real estate industry, which is essential to the success of our profession. Additionally, the code of ethics promotes fair competition among realtors, which helps to protect consumers from unethical or illegal business practices.

Another reason why the code of ethics is important to the real estate profession is that it helps to resolve disputes between realtors and their clients or customers. When a realtor violates the code of ethics, the NAR can investigate the matter and take disciplinary action if necessary. This can include sanctions such as fines, suspension of membership, or even expulsion from the organization. In some cases, violations of the code of ethics can also result in legal action, including lawsuits or criminal charges.

The consequences of violating the code of ethics can be severe, both for the realtor involved and for the profession as a whole. For the realtor, it can result in damage to their reputation, loss of clients or customers, and potential legal and financial consequences. For the profession, it can lead to a loss of public trust and confidence, as well as a decrease in the number of individuals seeking to become realtors.

In conclusion, the realtor code of ethics is a set of rules and guidelines that governs the behavior of real estate professionals. It is important to the profession because it promotes fairness, honesty, integrity, and professionalism among realtors. Violating the code of ethics can have severe consequences, both for the realtor involved and for the real estate profession as a whole. As a realtor, I take the code of ethics very seriously and strive to adhere to its principles in all of my dealings with clients, customers, and other real estate professionals.

Author: Real Estate Institute of Rhode Island