This morning I sat through a mock arbitration and mediation. Its amazing to me what you can learn from your local Board of Realtors. Nancy Dance did a great job but I have to say, it was ruled that David Wyant was awarded the $33,000 commission.
Keep in mind this was a mock mediation and arbitration.
While there I learned something new that made me realize I do believe many Realtors are Violating the Code of Ethics.
"The National Association of Realtors, Code of Ethics."
One of the responsibilities of a Realtor is to protect the public from harm.
Failing to ask that important question, Are you currently working with a Realtor can be harmful especially if you show property to a potential customer that already has an established relationship with another agent.
I have read the Code of Ethics many times, however, I miss that one. For me to ask that vital question was always courtesy and respect to fellow Realtors. It just made sense...I didn't realize it was my obligation as a Realtor to ask.
We make so many mistakes in assuming the general public knows and understand how Realtors work.
Its our responsibility to know what is right, not their's.
Why not explain how we get paid? How we work and what we do.
According to the National Association of Realtors, Our Code of Ethics Reads....
Stand of Practice 16-13
Before providing substantive services (such as writing a purchase offer or presenting a CMA) to prospects. Realtors shall ask prospects whether they are a party to any exclusive representation agreement. Realtors shall not knowingly provide substantive services concerning a prospective transaction to prospects who are parties to exclusive representation agreements, except with the consent of the prospects exclusive representatives or at the direction of the prospects.
So the next time you jump for that Potential buyer remember to ask that vital question....
"Are You Currently Working With A Realtor?"