We're all in this together, right?
Tuesday, April 14, 2009 at 9:56AM 
I'd like to draw everybody's attention to the Preamble of the REALTORS' Code of Ethics. Personally, I have a copy of it on the wall in my office and read it often. If you haven’t read it since you first obtained your license, I recommend reviewing it today; it will make you proud to be a REALTOR®.
Of particular interest is this portion:
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.”
I always appreciate and compliment any agent who exhibits a strong sense of cooperation. We are, after all, not each others' enemies; we striving to provide our clients with the very best service and expertise. One shining example of this comes from Marlene Rubinstein with Baird & Warner Highland Park. I had made an appointment to show one of her properties in Buffalo Grove, a condo in a larger complex. I was given the ok and the code by her office, and Marlene kindly left me a couple voicemails with helpful information about the unit (exact location, issues with the lockbox, etc.).
On the flip side, once, when I was showing a unit in a large building, I was told by the office that the lockbox was located by the bench at the front door. The problem was that there were 15 lockboxes attached to two different benches. The response after calling the office was a flat: “Just try all of them. If it’s not the right code, it will not open.” As you might have guessed, I was not very happy (especially given that my clients were standing next to me in the rain).
Henceforth, a reminder to all When leaving showing instructions with the office or whatever entity confirms showing appointments, figure out what would make life easier for the showing agent. Showing agents: Always give the listing agent some feedback so that they can report back to their clients.
In other words, go the extra step to cooperate with your peers. After all, we all need each others’ support. Let's make each others' lives in Real Estate easier in 2009.
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Reader Comments (1)
Edith - In 2004, the NAR Board of Directors approved a document called "Pathways to Professionalism". It is a list of professional courtesies (business etiquette) for VOLUNTARY use by REALTORS® and I think supplements your great blog post.
I. Respect for the Public
• Obey the Golden Rule - Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.
• Respond promptly to inquiries and requests for information.
• Schedule appointments and showings as far in advance as possible.
• Call if you are delayed or must cancel an appointment or showing.
• If a prospective buyer decides not to view an occupied home, promptly explain the situation to the listing broker or the occupant.
• Communicate with all parties in a timely fashion.
• When entering a property, ensure that unexpected situations, such as pets, are handled appropriately.
• Leave your business card if not prohibited by local rules.
• Never criticize property in the presence of the occupant.
• Inform occupants that you are leaving after showings.
• When showing an occupied home, always ring the doorbell or knock – and announce yourself loudly – before entering. Knock and announce yourself loudly before entering any closed room.
• Present a professional appearance at all times; dress appropriately and drive a clean car.
• If occupants are in during showings, ask permission before using the telephone or bathroom.
• Encourage the clients of other brokers to direct questions to their agent or representative.
• Communicate clearly; don’t use jargon or slang that may not be readily understood.
• Be aware of and respect cultural differences. Show courtesy and respect to everyone.
• Be aware of – and meet – all deadlines.
• Promise only what you can deliver – and keep your promises.
• Identify your REALTOR® and your professional status in contacts with the public.
II. Respect for Property
• Be responsible for everyone you allow to enter listed property.
• Never allow buyers to enter listed property unaccompanied.
• When showing property, keep all members of the group together.
• Never allow unaccompanied access to property without permission.
• Enter property only with permission even if you have a lockbox key or combination.
• When the occupant is absent, leave the property as you found it (lights, heating, cooling, drapes, etc). If you think something is amiss (e.g. vandalism) contact the listing broker immediately.
• Be considerate of the seller’s property. Do not allow anyone to eat, drink, smoke, dispose of trash, use bathing or sleeping facilities, or bring pets. Leave the house as you found it unless instructed otherwise.
• Use sidewalks; if weather is bad, take off shoes and boots inside property.
III. Respect for Peers
• Identify your REALTOR® and professional status in all contacts with other REALTORS®.
• Respond to other agents’ calls, faxes, and e-mails promptly and courteously.
• Be aware that large electronic files with attachments or lengthy faxes may be a burden on recipients.
• Notify the listing broker if there appears to be inaccurate information on the listing.
• Share important information about a property, including the presence of pets; security systems; and whether sellers will be present during the showing.
• Show courtesy, trust and respect to other real estate professionals.
• Avoid the inappropriate use of endearments or other denigrating language.
• Do not prospect at other REALTORS®’ open houses or similar events.
• Return keys promptly.
• Carefully replace keys in the lockbox after showings.
• To be successful in the business, mutual respect is essential.
• Real estate is a reputation business. What you do today may affect your reputation and business for years to come.