It’s no surprise that once in awhile REALTORS® find themselves in an ethical dispute over misunderstandings, miscommunication, or lack of adequate communication. In the five years of my tenure at GHAR, however, I've noticed that the number of Ethics complaint and Arbitration filings is steadily going down. Anyone can file an ethics complaint and it costs nothing, so why aren't more complaints being filed? Do you really think ethical behavior has improved over the last five years? Do you understand the process? Please share your thoughts with us!
When another REALTOR® or member of the public calls me regarding an ethical issue with one of our members, I may ask if the Complainant has tried to work it out directly with the member or their firm’s principal broker (managing broker/owner). Open, constructive discussion often resolves questions or differences eliminating the need for further action, and an apology certainly goes a long way in these situations. A reminder about a specific Article in the Code of Ethics may also evoke the ethical conduct needed to bring about a successful transaction. However, if there is no resolution after discussing matters with the REALTOR®, Office Manager, or Principal broker, then filing a formal ethics complaint is the best option.
Please help me get a pulse on what is really going on in the field by completing this brief survey. Your thoughts and suggestions are important to improving our Professional Standards process at the local level. Thanks for all you do!
Susy Hurlbert
Director of Executive Services
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