The Preamble to the Code of Ethics
Under all is the land. Upon its wise utilization and widely allocated ownership depend the
survival and growth of free institutions and of our civilization. REALTORS® should recognize that
the interests of the nation and its citizens require the highest and best use of the land and the
widest distribution of land ownership. They require the creation of adequate housing, the
building of functioning cities, the development of productive industries and farms, and the
preservation of a healthful environment.
Such interests impose obligations beyond those of ordinary commerce. They impose grave social
responsibility and a patriotic duty to which REALTORS® should dedicate themselves, and for
which they should be diligent in preparing themselves. REALTORS®, therefore, are zealous to
maintain and improve the standards of their calling and share with their fellow REALTORS
® a common responsibility for its integrity and honor.
In recognition and appreciation of their obligations to clients, customers, the public, and each
other, REALTORS® continuously strive to become and remain informed on issues affecting real
estate and, as knowledgeable professionals, they willingly share the fruit of their experience and
study with others. They identify and take steps, through enforcement of this Code of Ethics and
by assisting appropriate regulatory bodies, to eliminate practices which may damage the public
or which might discredit or bring dishonor to the real estate profession. REALTORS
® having direct personal knowledge of conduct that may violate the Code of Ethics involving misappropriation
of client or customer funds or property, willful discrimination, or fraud resulting in substantial
economic harm, bring such matters to the attention of the appropriate Board or Association of
REALTORS®.
Realizing that cooperation with other real estate professionals promotes the best interests of
those who utilize their services, REALTORS® urge exclusive representation of clients; do not
attempt to gain any unfair advantage over their competitors; and they refrain from making
unsolicited comments about other practitioners. In instances where their opinion is sought, or
where REALTORS® believe that comment is necessary, their opinion is offered in an objective,
professional manner, uninfluenced by any personal motivation or potential advantage or gain.
The term REALTOR® has come to connote competency, fairness, and high integrity resulting from
adherence to a lofty ideal of moral conduct in business relations. No inducement of profit and no
instruction from clients ever can justify departure from this ideal. 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.”
Word(s)! This is how I work. Hans Tonjes 503-936-4244
