Respect for the Public in Real Estate

Study Notes

Follow the Golden Rule: Treat others as you wish to be treated.
Respond promptly to inquiries and requests.
Schedule appointments and showings well in advance.
Notify if appointments or showings are delayed or canceled.
Explain to the listing broker or occupant if a prospective buyer declines a showing of an occupied home.
Communicate with all parties in a timely manner.
Handle unexpected situations (e.g., pets) appropriately when entering a property.
Leave a business card unless prohibited.
Refrain from criticizing property in the occupant's presence.
Inform occupants before leaving after showings.
Always ring the doorbell or knock before entering occupied homes, announcing yourself loudly. Knock and announce before entering any closed room.
Maintain a professional appearance at all times (attire and vehicle).
Obtain permission before using the telephone or bathroom in occupied homes during showings.
Encourage clients of other brokers to direct questions to their agent.
Communicate clearly, avoiding jargon or slang.
Respect cultural differences.
Show courtesy and respect to everyone.
Meet all deadlines.
Only promise what can be delivered and keep promises.
Clearly identify yourself as a REALTOR® in all public interactions.
Share factual information, not opinions.

Be responsible for all individuals entering listed property.
Never allow buyers to enter unaccompanied.
Keep all group members together during showings.
Never allow unaccompanied access without permission.
Obtain permission before entering, even with a lockbox key.
Leave the property as found when the occupant is absent; contact the listing broker immediately if something is amiss (e.g., vandalism).
Be considerate of the seller's property. Do not allow eating, drinking, smoking, littering, use of bathing/sleeping facilities, or pets unless instructed otherwise.
Use sidewalks; remove shoes/boots inside if weather necessitates.
Adhere to sellers' instructions regarding photography or videography.