Before being admitted, each salesperson or broker pledges to abide by the rules and regulations of their local association and those of the NAR. Membership is open to all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, ancestry, handicap, familial status, or national origin. However, the term REALTOR® represents more than a single profession. REALTORS® may engage in various sectors of the real estate industry, including property management, mortgage brokerage, appraisal, development, construction, and real estate brokerage.
Professionalism is a cornerstone of being a REALTOR®. They are bound by a strict Code of Ethics that other real estate agents may not have pledged to uphold. This Code embodies the highest ideals of the organized real estate industry and is rigorously enforced by associations like the Daytona Beach Area Association of REALTORS®. By virtue of their membership, all REALTORS® commit to upholding the principles and standards outlined in the Code. It governs their conduct and protects both them and the public from unethical practices in the marketplace. As one REALTOR® aptly stated, “It is the heart and soul of our organization.”
Remember, the term REALTOR® is a collective membership mark that exclusively refers to members of the National Association of REALTORS®. Just as not every photocopy is a Xerox, not every real estate agent is a REALTOR®.