Ethics. Relations. Education.

The Code of Ethics is what sets REALTORS® apart. It has guided the profession since 1913 and is widely recognized by practitioners, attorneys, and consumers as the standard of professionalism in real estate. When you abide by the Code, you signal to clients and colleagues alike that you operate at the highest level.

HOW KWAOR CAN HELP

KWAOR offers its members and their clients practical, cost-effective ways to resolve ethics complaints and monetary disputes — without going to court. Ethics complaints filed with a local association give all parties an opportunity to learn more about the Code, and REALTORS® are reviewed by their peers rather than those unfamiliar with real estate practice.

KWAOR also offers Ombudsman assistance for matters that have not yet risen to the level of a formal complaint. A trained Ombudsman serves as a neutral intermediary to help facilitate communication and work toward resolution. Ombudsmen do not determine whether ethics violations have occurred — their role is to help parties understand each other and resolve misunderstandings before they become formal disputes.

ETHICS MEDIATION

Ethics mediation is a voluntary, confidential alternative to a formal hearing. It may be offered at any point after the Grievance Committee determines a hearing is warranted. Either party may decline or withdraw at any time. If mediation is declined or does not result in resolution, the matter proceeds to a formal ethics hearing.

ARBITRATION PROCEDURES

KWAOR members agree, as a condition of membership, to submit eligible monetary disputes arising from real estate transactions to arbitration rather than litigation. In accordance with NAR policy, mediation is required before an arbitration hearing can be scheduled. A hearing will not proceed unless mediation has been attempted and was unsuccessful, or a party has refused to participate as documented by the Association.

For detailed procedures covering ethics complaints, mediation, and arbitration, see the Professional Standards & Ethics Complaint Procedures link below.