The term REALTOR® is a registered collective membership mark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics.
Being a REALTOR® is a membership identifier, not an occupation. REALTORS® are brokers and agents, but not all brokers and agents are REALTORS®.
REALTORS® are members of the National Association of REALTORS® who are bound by a Code of Ethics while helping you navigate one of the most complicated and important transactions you’ll make in your lifetime.
Ethics, Expertise and Education
the REALTOR® difference at work for you.
REALTORS® as Champions
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REALTORS® are everyday working Americans who champion homeownership and property rights for the communities they serve.
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REALTORS® are entrepreneurs and most often small business owners who exemplify the spirit of this country.
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As engaged neighbors, REALTORS® are committed to building and enhancing the communities we serve and advocating for fair housing for all.
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Regardless of how you find a property, expert real estate agents help take the stress out of the home buying process and navigate what is for many the most complex and important transaction they’ll ever do.
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Real estate agents who are REALTORS® help consumers with:
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Community knowledge – such as imparting information on local property taxes and providing objective resources on neighborhoods
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Financial aspects – such as coordinating with lenders and researching mortgage rates
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Legal matters – such as helping buyers manage required state and federal forms and closing documents
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Every REALTOR® is bound by a strict code of ethics based on professionalism, consumer protection and the golden rule.
A Few Things Your REALTOR® Does for You
Pre-Listing Activities
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Research all comparable currently listed properties
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Research & verify legal description
Marketing The Listing
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Review comparable listings regularly to ensure property remains competitive
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Receive & review all Offer to Purchase contracts submitted by buyers' agents
The Offer and Contract
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Counsel seller on offers. Explain merits & weakness of each offer
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Negotiate all offers on seller's behalf, set time limit for loan approval & closing
Tracking the Loan Process
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Follow loan processing through to the underwriter
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Add lender & other vendors to your management program so agents, buyer & seller can track progress of sale
Home Inspection
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Coordinate buyer's professional home inspection with seller
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Explain seller's responsibilities & interpret any clauses in the contract
The Appraisal
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Provide comparable sales used in market pricing to Appraiser
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Assist seller in questioning appraisal report if it seems too low
Source: 184 Things Your REALTOR® Does For You! By Kelly Baker Link