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Environmental Stewardship and the REALTORS® Code of Ethics

By
Commercial Real Estate Agent with Green Paradigm Realty LLC

You will recall that the REALTORS® Code of Ethics was adopted in 1913 (the National Association of REALTORS® was founded in 1908) and the preamble was added to the Code of Ethics in 1924. 

My favorite part of our Code of Ethics is the preamble.  It seems we skip it in our quadrennial ethics training.  For those of us in the green space, the preamble seems to provide our raison d'être.

Excerpting the 1st paragraph:

"Under all is the land.

Upon its wise utilization ... depend the survival and growth of free institutions and of our civilization.

... the interests of the nation and its citizens require the preservation of a healthful environment."

Advocating for and practicing sound environmental practices--indoor and outdoor--seems to be what a REALTOR should be all about.

Excerpting the 2nd paragraph, we see:

"Such interests impose obligations beyond those of ordinary commerce. They impose grave social responsibility and a patriotic duty to which REALTORS® should dedicate themselves, and for which they should be diligent in preparing themselves."

The 3rd paragraph explains why I share so much information in this blog:

In recognition and appreciation of their obligations to clients, customers, the public, and each other, REALTORS® continuously strive to become and remain informed on issues affecting real estate and, as knowledgeable professionals, they willingly share the fruit of their experience and study with others.

Copyright National Association of REALTORS®, Reprinted with permission.

Stay tuned to this blog and you'll be well positioned to help lead the real estate profession into the new green economy.  If you live in the Delaware Valley / Greater Philadelphia area, attend our "First Wednesday of the Month" breakfast seminars on green building.  Visit the resources section of our website www.GreenParadigmInstitute.com

Need advice on green real estate or a renewable energy project?  Give me a call at 856 981 2973.