Code of Ethics

The Code of Ethics that all Realtors® abide by separates Realtors® from real estate agents. By becoming a member of the Association, a real estate agent agree to "take an extra professional step" and embrace and comply with the Code of Ethics.

Duties to Clients and Customers

Article 1 Realtors® protect and promote their clients' interests while treating all parties honestly. Article 3 Realtors® cooperate with other real estate professionals to advance their clients' best interests. Article 5 Realtors® do not provide professional services where they have any present or contemplated interest in property without disclosing that interest to all affected parties. Article 7 Realtors® receive compensation from only one party, except where they make full disclosure and receive informed consent from their client. Article 9 Realtors® make sure their contract details are spelled out in writing and that parties receive copies.

Article 2 Realtors® refrain from exaggeration, misrepresentation or concealment of pertinent facts related to property or transactions. Article 4 When buying or selling on their own account or for their families or firms, Realtors® make their true position or interest known. Article 6 Realtors® shall disclose any fee or financial benefit they may receive from recommending related real estate products or services. Article 8 Realtors® keep entrusted funds of clients and customers in a separate escrow account.

Duties to the Public

Article 10 Realtors® give equal professional service to all clients and customers irrespective of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin. Article 12 Realtors® paint a true picture in their advertising and in other public representations. Article 14 Realtors® willingly participate in ethics investigations and enforcement actions.

Article 11 Realtors® are knowledgeable and competent in the fields of practice in which they engage or they get assistance from a knowledgeable professional, or disclose any lack of expertise to their client. Article 13 Realtors® do not engage in the unauthorized practice of law.

Duties to Realtors®

Article 15 Realtors® make only truthful, objective comments about other real estate professionals. Article 17 Realtors® arbitrate financial disagreements with other Realtors® and with their clients.

Article 16 Realtors® respect the exclusive, professional relationship that other Realtors® have with their clients.

Please remember that this is simply a general overview of the Code's key principles. For additional information on the Code of Ethics and its enforcement, speak with a Realtor® or contact Peggy Beiling at the Sarasota Association of Realtors® by calling 328-1169 or e-mailing peggy@sarasotarealtors.com