“The Preamble to the Code is the aspirational basis for the ethical concepts that REALTORS® believe in. Included are the core concepts of honesty, integrity, fairness, and moral conduct in business relations. Near the end of the Preamble, the timeless, universal principle of the Golden Rule is cited. Because the Code sets the ideals that we strive to attain, it is subjective in nature. As such, it cannot be used as a basis for disciplinary action against a REALTOR^®. Only the Articles of the Code are used as the basis for discipline of REALTOR^® membership.”

The professional standard that sets REALTORS^® apart from other real estate practitioners is their acceptance and adherence to the Code of Ethics. The Code was first adopted by the National Association of REALTORS^® in 1913 and has been revised many times through the years to reflect current developments in professional real estate practice. But even with the best of intentions, planning and preparation, occasional disagreements arise between REALTORS^® and/or between REALTORS^® and their clients or customers. As civil litigation becomes increasingly costly, time consuming, and burdensome, there has been a trend among private parties to settle disputes and conflicting claims through alternative means.

The Greater Albuquerque Association of REALTORS^®, Professional Standards office offers its members and their clients a vehicle to economically expedite ethics complaints and/or arbitration requests without going to court. Plus, our Association offers alternative dispute resolution options such as the Ombuds program and Mediation.

Ethics complaints brought before a local association give those parties involved an opportunity to be educated about the Code, and REALTORS^® are judged by their peers as opposed to others who may be far less familiar with the practices and customs of the real estate industry. Find out how to file an ethics complaint.

Arbitration Services

Arbitration of business disputes with other REALTORS® is a valuable service provided by the REALTOR^® association, ensuring that the dispute will be dealt with by peers who have a better understanding of the real estate business than most other adjudicators. The Code of Ethics requires that REALTORS^® file a request for arbitration, before they litigate. Find out how to file an arbitration request.

Mediation Services

Mediation is a voluntary process which people in dispute can use to reach agreement. With the help on an impartial mediator they work toward a mutually acceptable solution. To find out how to file a mediation request, download our Mediation information package for Brokers or for the Public.

Ombuds Program

The Ombudsman Program is a low-level conflict resolution program.  In its simplest definition, it is an informal telephone 'mediation' process.  Like a mediator, an Ombuds is a highly trained neutral facilitator who assists parties in finding options and solutions they can live with.  This free program is available to GAAR members, their clients and customers. 

The Ombudsman Program provides a neutral, informal, and flexible avenue to address a wide range of concerns with a variety of tools and approaches. It provides a non-escalating, off-the-record resource to work with you to give you timely answers to your questions and to explore the options, approaches, and alternatives available to you to help resolve matters without resorting to more formal channels. Click here to view the Ombuds Brochure. 

If you have questions regarding any of the above Professional Standards processes, please call 505-724-3466.

Related Links

• REALTOR.org - Code of Ethics
• REALTOR.org - Ethics Complaints, Arbitration Requests, and Related Information
• New Mexico Association of REALTORS® - Professional Standards
• Code of Ethics and Arbitration Manual