The Realtor Code of Ethics outlines professional standards and conduct expected of Realtors, emphasizing integrity, honesty, and transparency in dealings with clients, colleagues, and the public. It promotes fair treatment, confidentiality, and protection of clients’ interests, while also emphasizing respect for fellow professionals and adherence to legal obligations. The code aims to maintain trust, uphold professionalism, and ensure ethical business practices within the real estate industry.
Code of Ethics & Standards of Practice
The text of the 2022 Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice is provided below:
2023 Code of Ethics (PDF)
To order electronic/hard copies of the Code of Ethics and other policy publications, please visit the REALTOR.org Store.
Translations of the Code of Ethics in Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Korean, Spanish, Tagalog, and Vietnamese are available. You can also view previous editions.
Hear audio clips of each Article (not including the Standards of Practice) by clicking the [listen] tags below, or visit this page to listen to the entire set on a single page.
Code of Ethics Training Requirement
All REALTORS® must complete REALTOR® Code of Ethics (COE) training every cycle to maintain their REALTOR® membership. The current three year period is January 1st, 2022 – December 31st, 2024. New REALTORS® must complete the training within one year of membership.
Online ethics training for free (no clock hours) from the National Association of REALTORS®.
How to File A Complaint
REALTORS® are different from non-member licensees because they voluntarily subscribe to a strict Code of Ethics. If you believe a REALTOR® has violated one or more Articles of the Code of Ethics, you can file an ethics complaint alleging a violation(s) through the local association of REALTORS® where the REALTOR® holds membership. You may search for a member’s local affiliation here.
In addition, REALTORS® agree as a condition of membership to arbitrate contractual disputes and specific non-contractual disputes as provided for in Article 17 of the National Association of REALTORS’®Code of Ethics.
Below are several resources to help you understand what filing and processing an ethics complaint and arbitration request entails, and the general process you can expect when filing an ethics complaint or arbitration request with a local association of REALTORS®. Check with the local association of REALTORS® to ensure you have the proper forms required by that association.
Ethics
Before You File an Ethics Complaint
This brochure explains alternatives to consider before filing an ethics complaint, as well as what to expect after filing a complaint.
Initiating an Ethics Hearing
Procedures for processing complaints alleging violations of an association’s bylaws.
Key Ethics Forms
View or download forms for initiating an ethics complaint.
Sanctioning Guidelines
While NAR does not recommend specific discipline for certain offenses, it does outline key points to be considered with respect to discipline.
Arbitration
Duty to Arbitrate
From Part Ten, Section 43 of The Code of Ethics & Arbitration Manual.
Arbitrable Issues
From Appendix I to Part Ten of The Code of Ethics & Arbitration Manual.
Key Arbitration Forms
View or download forms for filing an arbitration request.
Factors Considered in Arbitration
From Appendix II to Part Ten of The Code of Ethics & Arbitration Manual.
No Findings of Fact in Arbitration Awards
From Appendix IV to Part Ten of The Code of Ethics & Arbitration Manual.
Mediation as a Service of Member Boards
From Appendix VI to Part Ten of The Code of Ethics & Arbitration Manual. For more information go to the Mediation page.
Questions about the REALTORS® Code of Ethics? Need to file a complaint? Contact 1-800-562-6024.
