REALTOR® Code of Ethics

Do you know the difference between a REALTOR® and a real estate sales agent? As REALTORS®, our success isn’t measured by the bottom line. It’s measured by the trust of our clients and customers and the esteem in which we’re held by our colleagues and competitors. The Lorain County Association of REALTORS® was founded with the goal of uniting the real estate profession through high standards to protect buyers and sellers. The Code of Ethics continues to be what sets us apart as REALTORS®.

The Code of Ethics is a living document. Real estate is a dynamic business, and I believe the law and regulation will never replace the Code. So long as we, as REALTORS®, remain firm in our commitment to serve the public, the Code will evolve and remain significant — in concert with, but independent of, the law.

Because the Code of Ethics is a living, dynamic credo guiding us in our daily professional lives, it must be constantly revisited, reviewed and improved. In fact, the Code has been refined every year for the past 23 years. Besides educating REALTORS® on important changes to the Code, mandatory Code of Ethics training reaffirms our commitment to integrity and fair dealing.

Unquestioningly, a vibrant, professional, ethical real estate community is critical to encouraging and protecting property ownership, and ensuring the highest and best use of our nation’s land and resources. When I meet other REALTORS®, I see a great deal of pride in the commitment we have made to the principles of the Code of Ethics. As REALTORS®, we make a promise of professionalism and performance, and our pride in that commitment shows through to the clients and customers we serve.

The Code of Ethics has preserved its relevance and usefulness despite the passing of years. Because the Code is subject to constant review, and because REALTORS® remain dedicated to the highest standards, the Code continues to meet the founders’ goal of excellence and integrity in our professional lives. REALTORS® are constantly reminded of the Code’s principles and are well-served in basing our business decisions on its wisdom.

I am incredibly pleased and proud to be able to reflect on the rich history of the Code of Ethics, and more importantly reaffirm the REALTORS® commitment to its vision and reminding the buying and selling public how REALTORS® strive for professionalism every day.

And remember to contact a REALTOR®, a member of the Lorain County Association of REALTORS® for all of your real estate needs.

Members of the Lorain County Association of REALTORS® care about the community in which they live, work and support. Lorain County offers a wide variety of housing choices.

The Lorain County Association of REALTORS® is one of more than 1,200 local boards and associations of REALTORS® nationwide that comprise the National Association of REALTORS®. The National Association of REALTORS®, “The Voice for Real Estate,” is America’s largest trade association, representing more than one million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries.

REALTOR® is a registered collective membership mark which may be used only by real estate professionals who are members of the National Association of REALTORS® and subscribe to its strict Code of Ethics. Not all real estate sales agents are REALTORS®. All REALTORS® are members of NAR along with their State and Local Associations.

Chad Schneider