Code of Ethics & Standards of Practice
There are several important distinctions between a licensed real estate professional and a REALTOR®.
The most important distinction is the National Association of REALTORS® Code of Ethics.
The Code of Ethics is a set of professional guidelines by which REALTORS® must abide to ensure they cooperate with each other and further clients’ best interests. REALTORS® may use the trademarked “R®” only when they have voluntarily joined the association and subscribe to this higher set of professional standards governing how they conduct themselves professionally, and personally.
When NAR adopted the Code of Ethics in 1913, it was one of the first codifications of ethical duties by any business group. It has since changed and evolved with the evolution of the profession but, more than 100 years since its inception, the Code of Ethics remains a cornerstone of the REALTOR® brand and identity.
- Code of Ethics overview
- Read the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice
- REALTORS®’ Pledge of Performance and Service
- Professional Courtesy and Etiquette
- Policy Updates Approved by NAR Board November 2020
- NAR resources for ethics complaints and arbitration requests
- Brochure: Before You File an Ethics Complaint
