The Changing Face Of The Real Estate Market

In December 2011 I wrote this article about Realtors® and the Code of Ethics. During the changing market some are giving up their Realtor® affiliation and becoming sales agents. I thought a review might be in order. It is important to be educated about the difference in order to make a wise decision when hiring a real estate professional.  

Santa may not be the best person to help you in your search for the perfect home but a Realtor® is the perfect Santa’s Elf to help you in this department. I thought you might find it interesting to learn a little about these helpers and what governs their behavior.

Did you know that Realtors® abide by a strict Code of Ethics? This Code of Ethics is very clear in establishing the guidelines by which a Realtor® works with the public and with other real estate agents. The following paragraphs are the last two in the Preamble to the Code of Ethics.

In the interpretation of this obligation, Realtors® can take no safer guide than that which has been handed down through the centuries, embodied in the Golden Rule, “Whatsoever ye would that others should do to you, do ye even so to them.”

Accepting this standard as their own, Realtors® pledge to observe its spirit in all of their activities whether conducted personally, through associates or others, or via technological means, and to conduct their business in accordance with the tenets set forth below. (Amended 1/07)  The Realtor® is required to take an ethics course every four years.They cannot call themselves Realtors® without completing this class.

The Code goes on and lists in detail the manner in which the Realtor® conducts his or her business. These guidelines provide an environment of mutual respect among peers and clients. Not all real estate agents are Realtors®  Ask your professional if they are a Realtor®?

The Code of Ethics was created in 1913 by the National Association of Realtors® and is the guide that most states used to create laws that govern the real estate business

As dedicated professionals, most Realtors® work seven days a week. A day off means they wear jeans instead of their normal work clothes. The smartphone is always at hand and now the laptop or iPad is their companion. The phone must be answered because you have a duty to buyers and sellers to respond to their needs in a timely manner.  Holidays cannot be holidays for a Realtor® if they are negotiating an offer. When the buyers offer comes in, it is time to react, holiday or no holiday.

A Realtor® cares about their buyers and sellers. A good Realtor® becomes a counselor for the family during the process of buying or selling. Sometimes this means everyone is in tears at the closing table but that is what separates the good agent from the great agent.

Realtors® care about their community. Realtors® give back because they know the importance of taking care of the neighborhoods. They sponsor their local schools. They serve on boards. They volunteer.  You can call on a Realtor® when you hear of a need in the community. They step up. Can you tell that I’m proud to call myself a Realtor®? Want to learn more, visit my website at PeachtreeCorners.com

When it is time to find your next home do not call Santa, call a Realtor®. He or she won’t come down the chimney but I can assure you they can help you buy or sell your home.

New on the market is 3683 Wickford Lane, Peachtree Corners, GA. This home is priced at $320,000.