Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice
of the National Association of REALTORS�
Effective January 1, 2002
Preamble
Duties to Clients and Customers
(Articles 1-9)
Duties to the Public
(Articles 10-14)
Duties to REALTORS�
(Article 15-17)
Explanatory Notes
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.
In recognition and appreciation of their obligations to clients,
customers, the public, and each other, REALTORS� continuously strive to
become and remain informed on issues affecting real estate and, as
knowledgeable professionals, they willingly share the fruit of their
experience and study with others. They identify and take steps, through
enforcement of this Code of Ethics and by assisting appropriate regulatory
bodies, to eliminate practices which may damage the public or which might
discredit or bring dishonor to the real estate profession. REALTORS�
having direct personal knowledge of conduct that may violate the Code of
Ethics involving misappropriation of client or customer funds or property,
willful discrimination, or fraud resulting in substantial economic harm,
bring such matters to the attention of the appropriate Board or
Association of REALTORS�. (Amended 1/00)
Realizing that cooperation with other real estate professionals promotes
the best interests of those who utilize their services, REALTORS� urge
exclusive representation of clients; do not attempt to gain any unfair
advantage over their competitors; and they refrain from making unsolicited
comments about other practitioners. In instances where their opinion is
sought, or where REALTORS� believe that comment is necessary, their
opinion is offered in an objective, professional manner, uninfluenced by
any personal motivation or potential advantage or gain.
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 ever can 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 below.
Preamble
Duties to Clients and Customers
(Articles 1-9)
Duties to the Public
(Articles 10-14)
Duties to REALTORS�
(Article 15-17)
Explanatory Notes
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