What is a Realtor® and why should I use one?

Only real estate professionals who are members of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (NAR) can call themselves REALTORS®. All REALTORS® adhere to NAR’s strict Code of Ethics, which is based on Professionalism and protection of the public. That’s why all real estate licensees are NOT the same.

Dedicated to serving America’s property owners at both local and national levels, the NAR, The Voice for Real Estate®, is the largest professional trade association at over 950,000 members strong. So, whether you’re buying or selling a home—it pays to work with a REALTOR®. Look for the REALTOR® logo when choosing a real estate agent.

The Code of Ethics: A Commitment to the Public
The Code of Ethics of the National Association of REALTORS® is the promise to the public that when dealing with a real estate agent that is a REALTOR®, they can expect honest and ethical treatment in all transaction-related matters. Only REALTORS® pledge to abide by the Association’s Code of Ethics and only REALTORS® are held accountable for their ethical behavior.

Some of the basic principals of the Code of Ethics include:

Protect and promote your client’s interests, but be honest with all parties.
Avoid exaggeration, misrepresentation, and concealment of pertinent facts. Do not reveal facts that are confidential under the scope of your agency relationship.
Disclose present or contemplated interest in any property to all parties.
Avoid side deals without your client’s informed consent.
Accept compensation from only one party, except with full disclosure and informed consent.
Keep the funds of clients and customers in escrow.
Assure, whenever possible that transactional details are in writing.
Provide equal service to all clients and customers.
Be knowledgeable and competent in the fields of practice in which you ordinarily engage. Obtain assistance or disclose lack of experience if necessary.
Do not engage in the unauthorized practice of law.

REALTOR Designations—The Mark of Expertise and Service
The NAR has a variety of affiliates that provide designations acknowledging experience and expertise in various real estate sectors.
NAR also offers designations and certification programs to its members, including the ABR® and GRI® designations, and the e-PRO® certification program.

ABR® (Accredited Buyer Representative)—Consumer demand for buyer representation has changed the relationship between buyers and real estate professionals. REBAC (Real Estate BUYER’S AGENT Council) awards the ABR® designations to REALTORS® who meet education and experience requirements to better prepare them to represent buyers.

GRI (Graduate REALTOR® Institute)—A REALTOR® with the GRI designation is trained in many areas, including legal and regulatory issues, professional standards, the sales process and technology. A minimum of 90 hours of training is required to achieve the GRI designation.

e-PRO®— e-PRO® certification indicates that a REALTOR® has been trained on Internet based business principles and the technologies required throughout the real estate transaction.

The Value of a REALTOR® to a Seller
REALTORS® provide sellers invaluable service, and there are many reasons to work with one. A REALTOR®:

Can give you up-to-date information about the market, prices, financing, terms and conditions of competing properties.
Will market your property to other real estate agents and to the public.
Will know when, where and how to best market your property.
Can help you objectively evaluate every buyer’s proposal without compromising your marketing position.
Can help you close the sale of your home.

The Value of a REALTOR® to a Buyer
REALTORS® provide critical assistance with the home buying process. A REALTOR®:

Has many resources to assist you in your home search.
Can provide objective information about each property.
Can help you negotiate.
Can help you determine your buying power.
Provides guidance during the evaluation of the property.
Can guide you through the closing process and make sure everything flows together smoothly.

Ask your real estate agent if they are a REALTOR®!

This article was provided courtesy of the National Association of Realtors®

Jim Miller is a full time full service licensed New Hampshire Realtor® with Bean Group and has many years of experience in buying and selling New Hampshire Real Estate .

Contact Jim direct at 603-801-3987.
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