If your realtor violates the Code of Ethics by leaking any private information or hiding flaws in a property, which are major issues, now you want to file an ethics complaint against your realtor but who can file an ethics complaint against a realtor? So, in this article, let’s find out who can file an ethics complaint and how to file an ethics complaint against a realtor… Before uncovering the answer to ‘Who can file an ethics complaint against a realtor?’ you need to understand some important aspects of an ethics complaint.
Do This Before Filing An Ethics Complaint Against A Realtor
If you have any problems with your realtor, such as misunderstandings or a lack of adequate communication, then you first need to speak and try to resolve the issue with the principal broker. This action often solves the problem and eliminates the complaint-filing process.
However, if you are still unsatisfied with the results, you might consider filing an ethics complaint against your realtor or broker. Just keep in mind these things before filing an ethics complaint.
- You can only file ethics complaints against realtors and realtor associates.
- If your real estate agent/professional or broker is not a REALTOR®, then the courts or the state’s actual state licensing authority might be your only options.
- Boards and REALTORS® associations only have the power to determine whether the Code of Ethics has been violated or not. If you want to complain about the violation of other real estate regulations, then you have to visit the court or a licensing authority.
- You can file the complaints against a violation of the Code of Ethics violation if the realtor does these things:
- Not behaving as a professional realtor and disrespecting clients.
- Disclosing confidential information.
- Without disclosing their real state status, marketing a listed property.
- Overstate the pros and features of a property.
- Not providing their clients with an appropriate service.
Who Can File An Ethics Complaint Against A Realtor?
Unlike non-member licensees, appointing a REALTOR® means professional service. However, if you face one or two violations of the Code of Ethics, you can file a complaint against that REALTOR®. You have the power and right to complain about ethics violations against your realtor through the local association of REALTOR®.
If you are wondering who can file an ethics complaint against a realtor, then let me tell you that you can file a complaint against your realtor by following these simple steps on how to file an ethics complaint:
Step 1.
First, arrange a meeting with the broker or firm head of your realtor. In this discussion, open up about the misconduct and unprofessionalism of the realtor. If you are not satisfied with the solution they provided, then you should pursue a complaint.
Step 2.
Now, if you are wondering, where can I file a complaint against a real estate agent in the US? There are two ways of filing a complaint against your realtor’s violation of ethics. If your realtor is a member of a Realtors Association, then call the broker or the real estate firm to find the information and the name of the Realtors Association where your realtor has a membership.
Step 3.
Now you need to review the Code of Ethics before filing an ethics complaint. Once you have done your research, file your complaint within 90 to 180 days. Some Realtors Associations have a time limit.
For example, the National Association of Realtors has a 180-day time limit after knowing that your realtor has committed a Code of Ethics violation.
Step 4.
After filing the complaint, save a digital copy of your complaint form. If the association provides you with some negotiation or request for settlement, go with that. Once the local grievance officer oversees your complaint and determines whether the allegation is correct and genuine or not.
Step 5.
If they accept your complaint and schedule a hearing, get prepared for it. Now you have to gather all the necessary documents and try to take at least one witness with you. The hearing will proceed like a trial in a semi-formal way. Make sure to present your evidence and witnesses clearly and logically. You can also take advice from a professional attorney to present your case more precisely.
What if your realtor is not associated with any realtor associations? Now, how and who can file an ethics complaint against a realtor? So, there is another way to file a complaint against your realtor’s unprofessional behavior or misleading sales.
Follow these steps to file an ethical complaint against a governing licensing board against your realtor:
Step 1.
First, visit the website of your state’s governing board. Almost every realtor is licensed by the state, and every state has a well-maintained real estate agent-related webpage. Search “The Name Of Your State Real Estate Licensing.”
Step 2.
Now download the complaint filing form and get a printout. Then fill out the form carefully with a black ink pen. If you are not confident doing the form fillup, then ask an agent supervisor or search for how to fill out an ethics complaint form. Make sure to answer the questions in the form of “who, what, where, when, and how” and describe the event shortly and clearly.
Step 3.
After that, mail the complaint to the mail address. The mailing address should be on the form. You can also attach some supporting documents, contacts, or checks.
Step 4.
Once you have finished the mailing process, save a copy of the complaint filing and wait for the hearing date.
CONCLUSION
In the end, you have the answer to who can file an ethics complaint against a realtor and how to file the complaint. Remember, the function of the hearing process is the same as a court trial. If you are wondering, ‘when someone files an ethics complaint against a licensee through the local association of realtors?’ read the ‘Before filing an ethics complaint section’ above in this article. If you have any other questions related to this topic feel free to ask me in the comment section. Also, read these articles below to learn more about real estate laws…
Must Read :
- What Is ARV In Real Estate?
- How To Find Real Estate Agencies?
- What Does Contingent Mean In Real Estate?
- How Much Money Do You Need To Start A Real Estate Business?
About Author
