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Based on input from many sources, MCAR's Professionalism Task Force developed the "Principles of Practice," a list of professional courtesies for REALTORS® to adopt on a voluntary basis. This list is not all-inclusive and these courtesies cannot be used as the basis for a professional standards complaint, but are intended to augment the Code of Ethics subscribed to by all REALTOR® Members.
The following Principles of Practice are designed to serve
as the basis for acceptable professional behavior by MCAR REALTORS®.
I. RESPECT FOR THE ORGANIZATION
1. Ensure the effectiveness of the NAR Professional Standards Policy with regard to the Code of Ethics by educating yourself on the process, strictly abiding by the Articles and implementing enforcement procedures as a situation may warrant.
II. RESPECT FOR PEERS
1. Treat all other real estate professionals with respect, either over the phone or in person, as
you would have them treat you.
2. Refrain from the use of cell phones while engaged in conversation with other real estate
professionals.
3. Properly educate your customers / clients with respect to proper protocol regarding the
real estate transaction process, as well as applicable forms, contracts, responsibilities, etc.
4. Show respect for your fellow REALTOR®’s time by contacting the listing broker to
schedule or cancel an appointment in advance.
5. Call the listing broker promptly to report any substantive results of any showing.
6. Notify the listing broker immediately if anything appears wrong with the property or if
there appears to be inaccurate information on the listing.
7. As the listing agent, share important information about a property, including the presence
of pets; security systems; lockbox systems and whether sellers will be present during the
showing.
8. Do not engage in any derogatory behavior or discussion regarding a fellow REALTOR®.
Resolve any differences or concerns directly with the party involved, or take appropriate
enforcement action if necessary.
9. Ensure that personal assistants or other clerical support staff representing you, maintain
the same level of standards as prescribed in these practices, as well as the Code of Ethics.
III. RESPECT FOR PROPERTY
1. Assume responsibility for visitors to listed property; never allow buyers to enter a
property unaccompanied.
2. When the seller is absent, be sure to leave the property in the condition you entered
unless otherwise instructed.
3. Refrain from, and restrict buyers from smoking in listed property.
4. Use sidewalks; if weather is bad, take off shoes and boots before walking through the
property.
5. Be responsible for the actions of children accompanying a buyer in listed property.
6. When a property is vacant, check that heating and cooling controls are set correctly and
check the outside of the property for damage or vandalism – report any troubling situations promptly to the listing agent.
IV. RESPECT FOR THE PUBLIC
1. Always respond promptly to inquiries and requests for information.
2. Always schedule appointments as far in advance as possible; call if you are delayed or
must cancel an appointment.
3. If a prospective buyer decides not to follow through with a scheduled showing, promptly explain the situation to the listing broker or the owner.
4. Enter listed property first to ensure that unexpected situations, such as pets, are handled appropriately.
5. Leave your business card if not prohibited by local rules.
6. Never criticize property in the presence of the owner.
7. Inform sellers that you are leaving after a showing.
8. When showing an occupied home, always ring the doorbell or knock before entering. Knock before entering any closed room.
9. Present a professional and properly groomed appearance at all times; dress appropriately (smart casual – no jeans, sneakers, sweats, etc) and maintain a clean vehicle.
10. If the seller is home during a showing and the situation is unavoidable, be sure to ask permission before using their telephone or bathroom.
11. Advise the clients of other brokers to direct questions to their agent or representative.
12. Communicate clearly; refrain from using jargon or acronyms not readily understood by the general public.
13. Be aware of and sensitive to cultural differences.
14. Be aware of and meet all deadlines.
15. Promise only what you can deliver and keep your promises.
16. Refrain from the use of cell phones while engaged in conversation with
customers/clients.
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