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Ethics Articles

Virtual Staging: Stay True by Disclosing

There are a number of software tools that allow you upload a photograph of an empty room and then add computerized images of furnishings, fixtures, and even paint colors. But is this kind of marketing allowed under the Code of Ethics?

June 1, 2010
Bruce Aydt

How to Handle Unethical Behavior in the Workplace

When a colleague does something unethical, how do you respond?

April 1, 2010

Don't Advertise It Without 'Authority'

The Code of Ethics requires "authority" to advertise a listing. But where does that authority come from?

March 1, 2010
Bruce Aydt

Changing With the Times

The Code of Ethics continues to be extremely relevant, despite constant changes in real estate business practices, market conditions, and technology. Here’s a brief summary of the updates made this year.

January 1, 2010
Linda Page

Follow the Higher Standard

When must a licensee provide a copy of a newly created purchase agreement to the buyer?

November 1, 2009
Bruce Aydt

Be Truthful About Scope of Repair Work

Regardless of how a property's defects are discovered, failing to disclose them after the fact amounts to concealment, a violation under Article 2.

October 1, 2009
Bruce Aydt

'Just Sold' Flyer Paints Deceptive Picture

If a "Just Sold!" flyer would lead a reasonable consumer to believe the REALTOR® who sent the flyer actually "sold" the property, then it's a violation of the Code of Ethics.

September 1, 2009
Bruce Aydt

No Harm in Answering Friend's Request

An acquaintance asked me discuss possibly taking on their listing. Would it be in violation of the Code of Ethics for me to follow through with this request without first getting permission from the broker who currently holds the listing? Or would this be OK because my acquaintance approached me about it?

July 1, 2009
Bruce Aydt

Listings Stay With the Broker

About a week after I took on a new listing, I switched brokerages and had my license transferred. My client wants to follow me to my new broker. Can she ask my former broker to terminate the listing so she can relist with me at my new brokerage?

June 1, 2009
Bruce Aydt

Short Sales: When Is an Offer 'Accepted'?

With distressed properties, there can be confusion about when an offer is accepted. The seller is still the legal owner of the property in most cases, and must be the first to accept an offer. Yet the lender also must approve or agree to the transaction, since it’s being asked to take less than what’s owed on the mortgage.

May 1, 2009
Bruce Aydt

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