10/5/04
Nearly 100 years ago, unethical
conduct and chaos in real estate was pretty much the norm. The industry
had a history of speculation, exploitation and disorder. At that time,
there were no license laws.
Thanks to a group of visionary real estate practitioners,
a professional Code of Conduct was developed for use on a voluntary
basis in 1908. Five years later, a mandatory Code of Ethics was adopted
for use by those wishing to hold themselves out to the public as being
better educated and held to high ethical standards.
Over the years, REALTORS have been held responsible for compliance with
the standards set forth in the Code and have been subject to disciplinary
action if they violate the Code. One of the many goals of the West Michigan
Lakeshore Association of REALTORS is to encourage the use of the Code
and its enforcement process. If a member of the public is having a problem
with a REALTOR that cannot be resolved, they need to file a formal complaint.
If a REALTOR is having an issue with a fellow REALTOR and such cannot
be resolved, they need to file a formal complaint.
Well-trained Association staff can assist anybody with
the process and procedures. Interestingly enough, and right in line
with WMLAR's own mission to raise the bar on the level of professionalism,
is what has become known as Quadrennial Ethics Training as a condition
of continued membership in organized real estate. The National Association
of REALTORS requires every single REALTOR in the organization to complete
a 3 hour Ethics Course at least once during every four-year cycle of
membership. There are no exceptions to this mandate. The policy went
into effect on January 1, 2001, which puts us today at the beginning
of the fourth year of the first four-year cycle. REALTOR members of
WMLAR have been working hard to complete the course and continue to
do so. In addition, the large regional trade Association in Western
Michigan puts forth a three hour required class during orientation of
any and all new members seeking to join WMLAR. The goal of the training
is to ensure that new members are familiar with, and experienced members
get a refresher course in, the Code of Ethics and its established principles.
It also lets homebuyers and sellers know they can rely on real estate
professionals who are educated in and abide by the Code of Ethics.
Any person desiring more information on the Code may
contact our Association headquarters in Grand Haven. They can ask for
me personally, or contact our Professional Standards staff liaison,
Lori Santellan at 616-846-6240.
May the Code be with you!
