In the real estate industry, first impressions matter. As we all know, curb appeal and staging have an immediate and immense impact on a client’s decision. But a REALTOR®’s courtesy and etiquette truly set the stage for home buying and selling. Real estate requires a high degree of professionalism across the board. How we treat our clients, properties and fellow REALTORS® is of the utmost importance. After all, this profession is a privilege, and we must treat it as such from our very first meetings with clients.
With proper etiquette and sound professionalism, REALTORS® have the power to make a good showing an exceptional one. Thanks to NAR’s Code of Ethics & Standards of Practice, we have access to a clear and concise set of guidelines and principles to reference. This code provides REALTORS® with specific rules and advice to follow as they guide clients through the real estate process. At Missouri REALTORS®, we recommend reviewing this code and taking a good, hard look at your personal professionalism. Assess your strengths and weaknesses. Set a plan to improve your interactions. And then prioritize the courteous, ethical treatment of your clients and your peers.
While you can access the entire Code of Ethics & Standards of Practice from the NAR website, we have highlighted the following key points.
Respect for the Public
At the end of the day, respecting the public in a real estate transaction boils down to timeliness and consistent, courteous communication.
NAR suggests that REALTORS® respond quickly to all requests, to schedule meetings and appointments as far in advance as you possibly can and to meet your deadlines. However, if you’re running late or you need to reschedule a meeting, letting clients know promptly is an absolute must. When in doubt, communicate early and often with the public. Your schedule is important, as is theirs. So although things certainly come up, don’t waste anyone’s time.
Communicate, communicate, communicate. Do it in a timely fashion and make your language and intentions crystal clear. Eliminate any confusing real estate jargon from your vocabulary, as the public most likely isn’t well versed. Ask questions, share the facts, and keep your promises. Also, be cognizant of cultural, religious and political differences and how they may alter the ways in which you communicate. Above all else, just communicate.
Finally, as NAR suggests, follow the golden rule. Treat the public with the same level of respect that you hope to receive in return. It’s really that easy.
Respect for Property
You are responsible for the listed properties you show. Keep that top of mind as you allow interested buyers to enter and explore the property.
Just a general rule of thumb—leave things the way you found them. The best way to ensure that lights, heating, cooling, windows, drapes and personal belongings go untouched is to accompany all members of the group through the property together. And as NAR explains, “Do not allow anyone to eat, drink, smoke, dispose of trash, use bathing or sleeping facilities, or bring pets.”
Respect for Peers
Professionalism is key when collaborating and connecting with your peers. Much like the respect that the public deserves, you should always communicate in a timely manner with your fellow REALTORS® and do so courteously. Use appropriate language and, again, respect cultural, religious and political differences. You will want to build up trust, which is so important among peers.
On a business level, NAR recommends that you divulge important property information to your peers, including security systems, sellers’ instructions and whether or not the sellers will be home, before they visit a listed property with interested buyers. A proper heads-up is just common courtesy and essential in building relationships in the industry. And speaking of courtesy, never prospect other REALTORS® open houses. It’s not kind, and it will impact your reputation.
After all, “Real estate is a reputation business,” says NAR. “What you do today may affect your reputation—and business—for years to come.”