Did you know that not all real estate agents are REALTORS®? REALTOR® is the trademark name for members of the National Association of REALTORS®. Members enjoy ethical cooperation with other members and know that we all strive to uphold high professional standards.
The National Association of REALTORS® publishes the “Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®” every year for our review in their January magazine.
The Code starts with the ideals of our Association:
“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. 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 REALTORS® a common responsibility for its integrity and honor.”
It is a wonderfully refreshing reminder to read these words at the beginning of every new year.
If you would like to read the whole code, it can be found here:
http://www.realtor.org/mempolweb.nsf/pages/code
And we work diligently toward applying these standards.
