2023 Updates to REALTOR® Code of Ethics

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) has recently made updates to its Code of Ethics, which sets out professional standards for members of the organization.

These updates, which were implemented in January 2023, have amended several parts of the code, including Standard of Practice 3-9, Standard of Practice 3-11, Article 10, and Standard of Practice 10-3 and 10-5.

Standard of Practice 3-9

One of the key updates to the code is to Standard of Practice 3-9, which now states that REALTORS® (members of the NAR) shall not provide access to listed property on terms other than those established by the owner or seller. This means that REALTORS® cannot deviate from the agreed-upon terms when showing a property to potential buyers or renters.

Standard of Practice 3-11

Another important update is to Standard of Practice 3-11, which prohibits REALTORS® from refusing to cooperate with other members on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity. This ensures that all members of the NAR are treated fairly and with respect, regardless of their personal characteristics.

Article 10

Article 10 of the Code of Ethics has also been amended to prohibit REALTORS® from denying equal professional services to any person on the basis of certain characteristics, including race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity. This means that REALTORS® cannot discriminate against any individual when providing their services.

In addition to these changes, the NAR has also amended its code to explicitly state that REALTORS®, in their employment practices, must not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity. This ensures that the NAR is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion within the real estate industry.

Standard of Practice 10-3 and 10-5

Finally, the NAR has updated Standard of Practice 10-3 and 10-5 to prohibit REALTORS® from printing, displaying, or circulating any statement or advertisement that indicates any preference, limitations, or discrimination based on certain characteristics, including race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity. REALTORS® are also prohibited from using harassing or hate speech, or from using epithets or slurs based on these characteristics. These updates ensure that the NAR is committed to promoting fair and respectful practices within the real estate industry.

Overall, these updates to the NAR Code of Ethics demonstrate the organization's commitment to promoting diversity, inclusion, and fairness within the real estate industry. These changes will help to ensure that all members of the NAR are treated with respect and that all individuals seeking to buy or rent property are able to do so without discrimination.

What do you think about these updates to the Code of Ethics? Comment below or share with a colleague in an upcoming CE Class!