It is vitally important that when you pick an agent to represent you, that you find out from some recent clients does this agent "practice" what they preach.  It is easy for an agent to say they "believe" in strong representation, ethics, and professionalism, but another thing to practice it, especially in a down market where agents are straining for every dollar of income.

I have been teaching Agency & Fair Housing for Kaplan Professional Schools and Prosource Educational Services for several years, and it never ceases to amaze me how many agents really do not enjoy the "mandatory" nature of these classes. The subject of Ethics.  The Quadrennial Training was required by all REALTORS to have been completed by 12/31/08, so it is relatively fresh on many agents minds... This was excellent, and needed to assist in "standardizing" what REALTORS consider "ethical" and "appropriate" behavior with the public, our clients, and other REALTORS. In addition, the National Association of REALTORS has been promoting called "Pathways to Professionalism" which is a vigorous and honest look into the ways REALTORS can improve the way the solicit sales, work with prospects, and interact with other professionals involved in the real estate sales process.

Blessed to Serve,

Stieg Strand

www.stiegstrand.com