Why use a REALTOR®?

When you're looking for help buying or selling property, it's important to remember that the terms "real estate agent" and "REALTOR®" are not synonymous.  REALTORs® can provide an extra level of service.  To be a REALTOR® you must be a member of the National Association of REALTORs®.  NAR is a non-profit trade organization that promotes high professional standards in real estate education and information.

Code of Ethics

NAR member adhere to a strict code of ethics founded on the principle of providing fair and honest service to all consumers.  The REALTOR® business practices are monitored at local board levels.  Arbitration and disciplinary systems are in place to address complaints from the public or board members.

The local boards keep REALTORs® directly accountable to the individual consumers they serve.  Real estate licensees, who are not REALTORs®, work solely under state/provincial licensing regulations.

REALTOR   

The term REALTOR® is a registered collective membership mark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics. The term REALTOR® is a registered collective membership mark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics.

The NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® , "The Voice for Real Estate," is America's largest trade association, representing 1 million members, including NAR's institutes, societies and councils, involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries.

The membership is composed of residential and commercial REALTORS^®, who are brokers, salespeople, property managers, appraisers, counselors and others engaged in all aspects of the real estate industry. Members belong to one or more of some 1,600 local associations/boards and 54 state and territory associations of REALTORS^®. They are pledged to a strict Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.