In the dynamic drama of the real estate realm, the character of an Ethical Agent often shines the brightest, outperforming others with their torch of integrity and resilience. Two perennial themes that color this character’s journey – ethics and fair housing – often steer the course of the Agent’s professional saga. Yet the Ethical Agent stands undeterred, honoring the mantra: The Ethical Agent Always Wins!

Unraveling the essence of ethical behavior, we unearth a simple conjecture. Connected as closely to the philosophical arena as to commonplace conduct, ethics essentially means doing the right thing, however challenging that may be. It’s about walking the road paved with integrity, fairness, and moral courage.

But how might we paint the portrait of such an ethical person, you may wonder? You could picture someone treating all people with unbiased respect, irregardless of their cultural or racial origins. Or perhaps, you might envision a figure radiating compassion, dutifully considering others’ interests in each decision. Surely, the embodiment of integrity would not escape your sketch, a mark of unwavering commitment to principles, no matter the fallout. Undoubtedly, these traits characteristically epitomize the subject of our discourse, an ethical person, don’t they?

Of Pitfalls and Warnings – Unethical Practices Are Never Victorious

Roles such as Real Estate professionals, Salesperson or Broker, come draped in responsibility. They protect the public stage from the lurking shadows of fraud, deceit, and unethical conduct, upholding high standards of professionalism in their relations with both the audience and fellow actors. However, the play often unfolds to reveal instances of agents committing acts of misrepresentation.

These acts can be as simple as a salesperson failing to disclose material facts about a property, or as complex as a broker engaging in fraudulent practices. The consequences of such actions are far-reaching and can have serious repercussions for both the agent and their clients.

Take fraud – a chilling scene, a conscious act meant to deceive, enacted in a careless dereliction of truth. Imagine an agent guiding home sellers to mask unkempt dungeons with fresh paint, thus cloaking looming horrors like mold. The deception remains unvoiced, leaving all parties perturbed. An ethical agent guards against such performances.

Ethical Stewardship – The Real Estate Protagonist

The rich script of real estate is layered with laws and codes of ethics. State-level Real Estate License Laws dictate the basic guidelines for performers in this sphere. Reinforcing their significance, the National Association of REALTORS® Code of Ethics predates most states’ rules, expecting members to periodically refresh their knowledge through biennial training.

The Code of Ethics is a set of principles that guide the behavior of real estate agents. It’s not a legal document, but it does provide a framework for ethical decision-making. The code is divided into three sections: Duties to Clients, Duties to the Public and Duties to Other REALTORS®.

Alongside these actors, stand their industry allies and federal overseers, enforcing critical business laws, such as Antitrust Laws, the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA) and Consumer protection laws. They echo our Ethical Agent’s heroic refrain, “The Ethical Agent Always Wins!”

New York State’s License Renewal Rituals

In particular, New York State’s Department of State underscores the importance of perennial knowledge renewal. It mandates 22.5 hours of continuing learning for real estate licensees. This ensemble should include Fair Housing, Law of Agency, Ethical Business Practices, and Recent Legal Matters.

Effective September 21, 2022, as part of the 22.5 hours of continuing education required to renew both real estate salespersons and brokers will be required to complete at least 2 hours of instruction pertaining to implicit bias awareness and at least two hours of cultural competency training. 

Implicit bias is defined as the attitudes or stereotypes that affect an individual’s understanding, actions and decisions in an unconscious manner.  Cultural competency is defined as understanding cultural norms, preferences and challenges within our diverse communities. Real Estate Salesperson/Broker Continuing Education: Total hours of required topics if it’s your first renewal cycle is 12.5 hours, second or subsequent, renewal cycle is 11.5 hours.

Still a Member of the Board of REALTORS®?

Members of REALTORS® Boards even pledge to complete ethical training for 3 hours, with renewal deadline ending on December 31, 2024. This deadline is for cycle 7 of the NAR code of ethics course requirement. Cycle 8 will begin on January 1, 2025 and end on December 31, 2027.

All REALTORS® members must complete at least 2.5 hours of an approved Code of Ethics training within a three-year cycle. The course must include at least 2 hours and 30 minutes of instruction time, with or without continuing education (CE) credit.

Failure to complete training during any cycle will result in suspension of membership for the January and February following the cycle deadline. Membership will be terminated on March 1 after the cycle deadline. The Code of Ethics is only subscribed to by licensed REALTORS® members.

Contrary to popular belief, not all NY Real Estate Licensees in this realm belong to Trade Associations, but all recognize the power of ethical conduct in business.

All Roads Lead to the NY State MLS

Ever journeyed the byways of the New York or My State Multiple Listing Service (MLS)? Open to all licensed real estate professionals active in New York, the NY State MLS plays host to diverse property listings, adhering strictly to state laws and offering compensation mechanisms.

NY State MLS is the Nationwide MLS that allows you to list property in any city and state that you are licensed for one low monthly payment. NY State rejects the fines and fees that are common in local MLSs. Provides tons of features to help you grow your business. And has an industry-leading customer support team ready to ensure that your listings get the maximum amount of exposure possible. They a Nationwide MLS and Referral Network. Members must be a licensed Real Estate Professional to have access to NY State MLS.

Venturing into MLS – A Path Laden with Benefits

Peering into the benefits of feeding into this service, the attractive affordability of NYStateMLS membership stands out. Irrespective of whether you are a lone broker or commanding a sea of agents. The subscription pricing remains competitive and transparent. Extend business territories, foster customized sales, or wield it as a powerful marketing tool to enhance agent visibility and augment listings.

Your Listings – The Star Performers

Positioned on the NYStateMLS stage, your listings are thrust into the limelight, syndicated to ListHub. Projecting on over 100 plus websites and key sites such as Realtor.com, Trulia, Zillow, and Homes.com. An advanced syndication system ensures your name lights up as the listing agent without extra costs. Besides amplifying your business visibility, this branding allows you to stand tall in the industry.

The Show Must Go On

To enjoy this spectacle, you must bear the license of a real estate broker, an associate broker or salesperson. The show also welcomes auctioneers licensed to sell real estate and attorneys in states permitting them to act as brokers. Appraisers and lending institutions can subscribe for comparable data. Upon registration, provide your Real Estate License number and ensure your firm’s participation.

Joining the Act

To join this grand act, simply visit their Membership Sign-Up page and step into our aspiring Ethical Agent’s shoes!