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- NEW Short Sale Guidelines for 2012 – Feb 23, 9:00 am
- e-Marketing Using Microsoft Outlook – Feb 28, 1:00 pm
- Beginning Google Docs for Real Estate – Mar 6, 1:00 pm
- Senior Real Estate Specialist – Mar 7, 9:00 am
- HUD Management & Marketing (M&M III) Training – Mar 13, 11:00 am
- Distressed Property Goldmine – Mar 15, 9:00 am
- How to Work with Investors – Mar 15, 1:00 pm
- Microsoft Office Web Apps for Real Estate – Mar 20, 1:00 pm
- LEED Certified New Construction—Saving your Buyers Money – Mar 21, 9:00 am
- Shingles to Sewers: Understanding Homeowners Insurance – Mar 22, 10:00 am
- Salesperson 10-Hour Post Licensure Course – Mar 29, 12:00 pm
- Ethics: The Measure of Professionalism – Apr 19, 9:00 am
- Core Law Legal Update – Apr 19, 1:00 pm
- Fair Housing: How to Avoid Illegal Steering – Apr 20, 9:00 am
- Business Brokerage – Apr 25, 9:00 am
- 2012 OAR Industry Update Seminar – Jun 7, 1:00 pm
The REALTOR® trademark is a symbol used only by those professionals who belong to
Ethics Complaint Process
The Code of Ethics was adopted by the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® in 1913 and has been amended throughout the years to accommodate the ever-changing industry. The local board professional standards review process is one of the most important benefits of REALTOR® membership. Those who pledge to uphold the Code, depend on the association to enforce the Code and educate Board members of their obligations of REALTOR® membership.
The Cincinnati Area Board of Realtors® Professional Standards Committee hears complaints against its REALTOR® members based on the Code of Ethics of the National Association of Realtors®. In order for a complaint to be forwarded to a hearing, the complaint must be in writing, must be filed within 180 days after the facts described in the complaint could have been known in the exercise of reasonable diligence, must allege violations of specific Articles of the Code of Ethics and must state the facts supporting the allegations.
The procedure for filing a complaint with the Cincinnati Area Board of Realtors® has 3 basic steps.
First: Read the Code of Ethics. As you read, make notes as to which Article(s) of the Code you believe have been violated by the REALTOR®. Please note the actual Article(s) you feel have been violated as well as the Standards of Practice. The Standards of Practice included in the Code of Ethics serve to amplify the Articles and are not to be cited as a sole basis for the complaint. They can serve as evidence or to add credence to your complaint.
Second: If, after reading the Code of Ethics, you believe that one or more Articles have been violated, contact the Cincinnati Area Board of Realtors® at chenninger@cabr.org to have the paperwork sent to you (by e-mail or postal mail) for processing your complaint. You will receive the Cincinnati Area Board of Realtors® Ethics Manual, which contains the complete procedures for processing a complaint, and a Complaint Form which will need to be completed and returned to the Board office. You will need to be as specific as possible, listing the specific actions or inactions by the REALTOR® that you believe were wrong. Cite the appropriate Article or Articles of the Code of Ethics related to each action or inaction described in the complaint. Copies of supporting documentation will also be needed.
Third: Your appearance at a hearing of the Professional Standards Committee will be required. This will be your opportunity to address members of the Cincinnati Area Board of Realtors® Professional Standards Committee with your complaint. The REALTOR® whom your complaint is against will also be required to attend the hearing and explain or defend his/her actions.
The Professional Standards Committee cannot hear or decide issues of law or “try” a member for violations of the Ohio real estate license law or any other alleged violation of the law. It cannot enforce contracts or award damages. And, it has no authority over a member’s real estate license.
The Board can administer discipline to a REALTOR® found to be in violation of the Code of Ethics as follows:
If you are experiencing a problem with a REALTOR® that is legal in nature or if it pertains to the interpretation of a contract, we suggest you contact an attorney to learn your legal options.
The Cincinnati Area Board of Realtors® strives to promote professionalism among its members. When a member does not abide by the Code of Ethics, it affects the entire REALTOR® organization. If you have any questions regarding the jurisdiction of the Board or the complaint process, call us at (513) 761-8800.
March 12, 2004