For over 100 years, REALTORS® have promoted and protected the dream of property ownership for millions of Americans just like you. In fact, the National Association of REALTORS® was founded by real estate practitioners determined to unite the profession with the singular goal of establishing high ethical standards to protect buyers and sellers.

In 2013, REALTORS® celebrated the Centennial of the REALTORS® Code of Ethics and the protections it provides. Learn more about this significant anniversary (Please note that the following links will open in a new browser page at an external website):

  • Slideshow:Explore the Code’s history in words and pictures.
  • Video:In this 4-minute video, REALTORS® explain what the Code means to them, to their profession, and to consumers.
  • Poster (PDF, 293 KB):Read the complete text of the Code of Ethics that all REALTORS® pledge to follow.

The Code’s Preamble sets forth the core ideal that “…the interests of the nation and its citizens require the highest and best use of the land and the widest distribution of land ownership” coupled with “…the creation of adequate housing, the building of functioning cities, the development of productive industries and farms, and the preservation of a healthful environment.”

To those ends, REALTORS® pledge to treat all parties in a transaction honestly, to provide competent real estate services, to be truthful in real estate representations, and to provide equal professional services regardless of the race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin or sexual orientation of consumers.

REALTORS®’ commitment to the dream of home ownership and to diverse, thriving communities is demonstrated every day in their work with you and your neighbors. The market never stops changing, and the Code of Ethics evolves with it. By choosing to work with a REALTOR®, you are choosing a professional who holds himself or herself to high ethical standards.

Make sure to put your dreams in trusted hands.