If you are considering becoming a real estate agent, you will need to know the right questions to ask. These include whether you will need a license and the designation of a National Association of Realtors (NAR) member to be a licensed realtor. Also, you will need to know if you will have to follow the organization’s code of ethics. Finally, if you are interested in working as a real estate agent, you will need to find out how much money you will need to pay for your license. 
If you want to work as a real estate agent, you should get a license and obtain a designation from the National Association of Realtors. NAR offers a variety of programs that can help you improve your skills and increase your knowledge about the industry.
In addition, the association provides continuing education courses to help professionals stay up to date with the latest regulations and market trends. There are several designations and certifications that you can earn through the association, and each one requires different courses.
To become a licensed real estate agent, you must meet state requirements. Often, these requirements include completing an education course and passing a test. The process can vary from state to state, so it’s best to check with your state’s licensing board.
After you pass your exam, you’ll need to renew your license every two or four years. You may also need to obtain Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance. This protects you if a client sues you.
Real estate agents need to complete a number of education hours and continue to renew their licenses. They also need to undergo a background check. Depending on your state, this may require a criminal record report.
In the meantime, you can continue your education by taking courses offered by the National Association of REALTORS(r) and other real estate associations. Some of these education classes can be taken online or in person.
For instance, the At Home With Diversity certification teaches real estate agents about how to work with multicultural clients. It also teaches them how to mitigate risk.
The C-RETS (Certified Real Estate Team Specialist) designation is perfect for teams. This designation combines leadership, financial, and team development expertise. Also, the designation is recognized as the first in its class.
Another NAR certification, the ALC (Accredited Land Consultant), is awarded to the most knowledgeable land experts. This certification is available to agents who have at least two years of experience in the field.
NAR’s Code of Ethics gives consumers peace of mind. It includes 71 supporting Standards of Practice.
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) Code of Ethics is an ethical framework for real estate professionals. Essentially, it’s an obligation to behave in a professional way, protect the rights of consumers, and maintain the trust of the public.
It was originally adopted in 1913 with the aim of making a leaner list of rules for REALTORS to follow. Ultimately, this code has become a standard against which all real estate agents are held.
The Code of Ethics outlines 17 Articles that cover various aspects of conduct. In addition to those, it also includes “Standards of Practice,” which are more specific ground rules that Realtors are held against.
As with any industry, there are times when disagreements arise between REALTORS and their clients. To solve these issues, NAR has a disciplinary procedure. Typically, this procedure involves submitting an official ethics complaint to the local board.
This complaint may be submitted by the client, the board, or even a fellow real estate agent. If the complaint is not settled, it can be referred to the courts. Civil litigation is becoming more and more expensive, so settling disputes without the help of the courts is a good idea.
The National Association of Realtors Code of Ethics is updated annually, and the Code is published in the Real Estate Magazine. It’s important to check the most recent publications to get the most up-to-date version.
In order to adhere to the code, REALTORS are required to attend at least 2.5 hours of code of ethics training. They must also sign an ethics agreement.
In the event of a dispute, a REALTOR must act honestly, honor the best interests of the consumer, and ensure that all parties are protected. However, REALTORS are not allowed to engage in discriminatory housing practices.
In addition, they must not mislead or deceive customers or other real estate agents. They must cooperate with other REALTORS and provide additional information. A violation of the Code will result in disciplinary action.
