Like many care-based industries, Realtors® operate under a strict code of ethics. One can be a real estate licensee, but in order to be classified as a Realtor®, an agent must be a member of the National Association of Realtors®. Once a member of the organization, Realtors® agree to a follow guidelines that establish trust between agents and customers.
“Realtors have more that just a fiduciary responsibility to serve customers, there is also a privacy component,” said Mary Crist, office manager at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices New England Properties. “Our ethics are important in ensuring the customer’s private information will be protected.”
In addition to the national code of ethics, Berkshire Hathaway Realtors® have their own set of core values, known as G.R.A.C.E.S. These include growth, relationship, authenticity, compassion, empowerment and service.
“We take the national ethics one step further,” said Crist. “Our G.R.A.C.E.S are something that set us apart and are a great reference throughout the selling or renting process.”
The code of ethics lends consumers peace of mind that Realtors® will be honest, work in their best interests and offer full disclosure of a property or a home.
“These ethics are important to all of us,” said Deb Alderson, Realtor® at Berkshire Hathaway and president-elect for the Mid-Fairfield County Board of Realtors®. “Treating the public honestly and ethically to help them find exactly what they are looking for is the main priority.”
While these principles help consumers throughout the transaction process, they’re also beneficial in solving disputes between Realtors®. Disagreements, arguments or the breaking of ethics can also be solved by following the code’s guidelines.
“The principal of the code of ethics is to treat each other fairly, not just the consumer but also other Realtors,” said Alderson.
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