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What is a REALTOR®
Holding a real estate agent's or real estate broker's license does not make someone a REALTOR®. Membership in the National Association of REALTORS® entitles licensees to use the term "REALTOR®" on their business cards and in their marketing materials.
Being a REALTOR® does have many benefits, including group discounts on products and services, participation in multiple listing services and continuing education opportunities.
However, the most valuable benefit is the REALTOR® Code of Ethics. This code creates the true value that makes the real estate business a profession. It ensures that the client's interests are always protected.
Everything you need to know you learned in kindergarten. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. These statements help clarify the basic framework of the code that all REALTORS® must pledge to uphold as a condition of membership.
Strict enforcement of the REALTOR® Code of Ethics by member peers means that all REALTORS® conduct their day to day business with foremost concern for the client.
The REALTOR® Code of Ethics was first adopted in 1913 as a voluntary document outlining the professional duties of membership. The code became mandatory in 1924. This was an era before licensing was required in many states, and the REALTOR® code helped to establish professionalism and integrity for the real estate industry. In South Carolina, the South Carolina Real Estate Commission is the licensing authority for agents and brokers.
Why use a REALTOR® when selling your home?
When you are ready to sell your home, here's how a REALTOR® can help you:
Why use a REALTOR® when buying your home?
When you're ready to buy your home, here's how a REALTOR® can help you: