Dispute Resolution

Ethics Complaints

Realtor® Code of Ethics

Only Realtors® pledge to abide by the Code of Ethics and only Realtors® are held accountable for their ethical behavior. The Code of Ethics imposes duties above and in addition to those imposed by law or regulation which apply only to real estate professionals who choose to become Realtors®.

Some of the basic principles of the Code of Ethics include:

Protect and promote your client’s interest, but be honest with all parties.
Realtors® shall be careful at all times to present a true picture in their advertising and representations to the public.
Assure, whenever possible, that transactional details are in writing.

Dealing With Ethics Complaints

The Portland Metropolitan Association of Realtors® is responsible for enforcing the Realtor® Code of Ethics. Any person having reason to believe that a Realtor® is guilty of violating the Code of Ethics may file a complaint.

Many ethics complaints result from misunderstanding or a failure in communication. Before filing an ethics complaint, you may want to make reasonable efforts to communicate with the Realtor® or a managing principal broker in the firm. Open, constructive discussion often resolves questions or differences, eliminating the need for further action. If these efforts do not resolve the issue, PMAR can provide options for dispute resolution, including the procedures and forms necessary to file an ethics complaint.

For more information about these services, contact PMAR Professional Standards Administrator Diana Colin at 503-459-2156.