Realtor Code of Ethics

Realtor Code of Ethics

4-page summary:

(1)  Introduction

(2)  Duties to Customers

(3)  Duties to the Public

(4)  Duties to other Realtors

These are the “Duties to Customers” (abbreviated). Every Realtor is expected to abide by the letter and spirit of these words. Realtors shall:

(1)  Treat all parties honestly and protect/promote the interests of their clients.

● Realtors shall not deliberately mislead.

● Realtors shall preserve their client’s confidential information (forever!).

(2) Avoid exaggeration or concealment of pertinent facts.

(3) Cooperate with other brokers unless not in the best interests of their client.

(4) Disclose personal ownership interests in property.

(5) Disclose to clients the sources of Realtor compensation or benefits.

(6) Account for money held in trust for other persons in separate, special accounts.

(7) Assure that all agreements are in writing, with copies to all parties.

Despite good intentions to carry-out their duties to customers professionally, infrequently there is a perceived problem between buyer, seller and Realtor. For example, Realtors are obligated to discover and disclose only adverse factors “reasonably apparent” to someone meeting the Florida real estate licensing requirements. But defining exactly what that means can lead to misunderstandings.

Grievance procedures exist to determine exactly what-that-means. Violations draw penalties. Realtors should conduct themselves as though their responsibilities are far beyond those of ordinary commerce. Realtors must be objective and professional, and they must not be influenced by any personal motivation or potential advantage or gain.

More on the Realtor Code of Ethics in the following pages! Please read the entire document for more detail.

If you are being advised by a person who is not a Realtor®, to what Code of Ethics (if any) are they adhering?

Jim Smith, Broker Associate and part-owner

Florida Keys Real Estate Company

1824 Flagler Ave

Key West, FL 33040

Cell: 305-304-2433