What the Code of Ethics Means to Homebuyers and Sellers.

REALTOR® Trademark and Logo Rules
(plus downloadable REALTOR® logos)

The Code of Ethics and Standards of Business Practice are the backbone of the National Association of REALTORS® (N.A.R.). They are what distinguish the country’s 1.3 million REALTORS® from other real estate licensees.

The REALTOR® Code of Ethics protects the buying and selling public, promotes a competitive real estate marketplace, enhances the integrity of the industry, and it is your promise of performance and professionalism.

Through N.A.R., state, and local Associations, REALTORS® are subject to constant professional monitoring that keeps them directly accountable to the individual consumers they serve.

The Code of Ethics requires that REALTORS® put their clients’ interests first at all times. It also describes the optimum performance the public has a right to expect and provides a means for dispute resolution through mediation, arbitration, and if necessary, disciplinary action.

It is a mandatory requirement of REALTOR® membership! According to N.A.R., “effective January 1, 2001 applicants for REALTOR® membership shall complete an orientation program on the Code of Ethics…any orientation program must meet the learning objectives and minimum criteria established by the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®.”

Section 14-B and 17 of the Bylaws of the National Association of REALTORS® and Orange County Association of REALTORS® states,“Applicants for membership shall be familiar with and agree to abide by the Bylaws and Rules and Regulations of the Orange County Association of REALTORS®, the Bylaws of C.A.R. and N.A.R and agree to attend the Association Orientation class within 120 days of the application.”

REALTORS® who have completed such orientation at another Association of REALTORS® within the state of California shall not be required to complete further Code of Ethics orientation upon application for membership at OCAR provided that REALTOR® membership has been continuous or that any break in membership is for one year or less.

Can result in membership suspension - including MLS and SUPRA key access, notification of your broker, and possible loss of membership fees. Holding a real estate agent’s or broker’s license does not make an individual a REALTOR®. Only membership in N.A.R. entitles licensees to use the term “REALTOR®” on their business cards and in their marketing materials.

A broker or salesperson may be licensed in the State of California, and as such, can perform acts for which a real estate license is required, but he or she may not have previously been a member of the National, State, or a local Association of REALTORS®.

A seasoned agent still needs to attend if they have never been a REALTOR®. Through Orientation, they will become familiar with the REALTOR® Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice—where common violations can occur that may result in a fine or reprimand from the Association.