REALTORS® are required to abide by a strict Code of Ethics in all their business dealings as REALTORS®. The Professional Standards department is responsible for administering the enforcement of the REALTORS® Code of Ethics among our membership.

What is the Code of Ethics?
The National Association of REALTORS® Code of Ethics, adopted in 1913 and requires that REALTORS® pledge themselves to serve all parties in real estate transactions honestly, is the one factor that distinguishes REALTORS® from other real estate agents. Adherence to the Code is an obligation voluntarily accepted by REALTORS® to ensure high standards of professional conduct to serve the interest of their clients and customers.

Northwest Indiana Real Estate Professionals value the opportunity to hold membership in the Greater Northwest Indiana Association of REALTORS® in order to conduct their business successfully, ethically and cooperatively with other professionals in the industry.

The Fort Wayne Area Association of REALTORS® summarized the Code of Ethics best.
Duties to Clients and Customers
REALTORS® must:
protect and promote their client’s interests while being honest with all parties. They do not reveal confidential information.
avoid exaggeration, misrepresentation or concealment of pertinent facts.
cooperate with other real estate professionals to advance their client’s best interests.
when buying or selling, make their position or interest known.
disclose any present or contemplated interest in any transaction to all parties.
avoid “side deals” without their client’s informed consent.
accept compensation from only one party, except with full disclosure and informed consent of their client.
keep funds of clients and customers in an escrow account.
ensure that transactional details are in writing.

Duties to the Public
REALTORS® must:
provide equal service to all clients and customers.
be knowledgeable and competent in the fields of practice in which they ordinarily engage.
obtain assistance from a knowledgeable professional or disclose any lack of expertise to their client.
present a true picture in advertising and other public representations.
avoid the unauthorized practice of law.
be a willing participant in ethics enforcement procedures.

Duties to Other REALTORS®
REALTORS® must:
ensure their comments about other real estate professionals are truthful and not misleading.
respect the exclusive relationships with clients of other REALTORS®.
arbitrate contractual disagreements with other REALTORS® and with their clients.