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Pathways to Professionalism

🌟 Pathways to Professionalism

The National Association of REALTORS® Professional Standards Committee developed Pathways to Professionalism as a set of voluntary professional courtesies to guide REALTORS® in their interactions with the public, clients, customers, and fellow real estate professionals.

While the REALTOR® Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice establishes enforceable ethical obligations, it does not address matters of courtesy, etiquette, or day-to-day professionalism. Pathways to Professionalism is designed to promote higher standards of conduct and mutual respect—beyond what is required by the Code of Ethics.

👉 Please note: The items below are not enforceable and are intended as best practices. This list is not all-inclusive and may be supplemented by local customs and professional norms.

🤝 I. Respect for the Public

REALTORS® are encouraged to:

  • ⭐ Follow the Golden Rule in all interactions

  • ⏱️ Respond promptly to inquiries and requests for information

  • 📅 Schedule appointments in advance and notify parties of delays or cancellations

  • 🏠 Always schedule property showings in advance

  • 📞 Communicate clearly and timely with all parties involved

  • 🐾 Enter listed property first to address pets or unexpected situations

  • 💼 Maintain a professional appearance and a clean vehicle

  • 🗣️ Communicate clearly without jargon and respect cultural differences

  • 🤍 Show courtesy and respect to the general public at all times

  • 📌 Meet all deadlines and deliver on promises

🏡 II. Respect for Property

REALTORS® should demonstrate care and responsibility by:

  • 🔑 Never allowing buyers to enter listed property unaccompanied

  • 💡 Turning off lights, securing doors, and closing windows after showings

  • 🚭 Advising buyers not to smoke in listed property

  • 👟 Respecting the property by using sidewalks and removing shoes when appropriate

  • 🌡️ Ensuring heating and cooling controls are properly set in vacant properties

  • 👀 Checking for signs of damage or vandalism when leaving a vacant property

🤝 III. Respect for Peers

Professional courtesy among REALTORS® includes:

  • 📲 Reporting showing feedback to the listing broker

  • 🚨 Immediately notifying the listing broker of any issues with the property

  • 📝 Sharing concerns about inaccurate listing information

  • 🐶 Communicating important details such as pets, security systems, or seller presence

  • 🤗 Treating fellow real estate professionals with courtesy, trust, and respect

💼 A Commitment to Professionalism

Pathways to Professionalism reflects the REALTOR® commitment to integrity, cooperation, and respect—strengthening relationships with consumers and elevating the real estate profession as a whole.

If you have questions about professional standards or the REALTOR® Code of Ethics, DCAR staff is here to help.

📞 845-471-2811 | ✉️ staff@dcar.com

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