Realtor Code of Ethics Celebrate 100 Years
Established in 1913 the Realtor Code of Ethics was developed to provide a guide for all Realtors. This code follows the Golden Rule and clearly defines certain requirements for Realtors. Article 1 pertains to being honest and treating everyone honestly. The fiduciary responsibility toward the client consists of four characteristics: obedience, disclosure, confidentiality, and loyalty.
This code is what distinguishes a Realtor from all other sales positions as it sets professional standards for its members. These standards must be adhered to otherwise a Letter of Reprimand all the way up to expulsion, based on the offense, may be enforced.
The Code of Ethics consists of a Preamble which sets the tone of the code’s 17 articles and Standard of Practices for those articles. The articles cover Duties to Clients and Customers, Duties to the Public, and Duties to other Realtors.