For Our Members / MIBOR Benefits & Services / Professional Services & Industry Issues

Professional Services & Industry Issues

Benefits & Services

Communications
Economic Development
Government Affairs
Become a Member
Professional Services & Industry Issues
Continuing Education
Education/Licensing
BLC® Listing Service Support
R & B Cooperative
Committees
Leadership & Direction
MIBOR Divisions
Find a Member
Member Account Information

MIBOR's Professional Services Department consists of two staff members who focus on serving the needs of members regarding professional standards, including:

• Educating members concerning the Code of Ethics and the dispute resolution processes afforded through REALTOR® membership
• Ensuring cooperation among members
• Serving as staff liaisons regarding relevant issues of importance to REALTORS®

The Code of Ethics of the National Association of REALTORS®

The Code of Ethics forms the foundation of membership in MIBOR. Adherence to the 17 Articles of the Code of Ethics distinguishes REALTORS® from real estate licensees. The Code spells out a higher standard of professional behavior in three categories; Duties to Customers and Clients; Duties to the Public, and Duties to Other REALTORS®. Upon joining MIBOR, all REALTOR® members agree to the duties and obligations of the Code, and thereby are subject to sanction if found to be in violation of the Articles of the Code of Ethics.

Dispute Resolution Process Available Through MIBOR

Ethics Complaints
Ethics complaints may be filed by REALTORS® or members of the public. Ethics complaints serve to educate members as well as provide a disciplinary process when violations have occurred.

In order to file a complaint, you will need the forms available by clicking on the following links:

• The Code of Ethics of the National Association of REALTORS® (PDF)
• Before You File An Ethics Complaint (PDF)
• Ethics Complaint Form (PDF)

Problem Prevention Reports
In situations where individuals would simply like to educate or alert members to a potential violation of the Code of Ethics, license law, local or federal statutes, a Problem Prevention Report is sent to the member in a pro-active effort to educate the member in the area of the potential violation.

Ombudsman
Many ethics complaints are filed due to a breakdown in communications between the parties involved. In situations where a call from a staff member will help the parties communicate, MIBOR is happy to assist.

Arbitration
REALTORS® have an obligation under the Code of Ethics to arbitrate commission disputes through MIBOR, rather than filing litigation to resolve the matter. If a dispute is found to be arbitrable by MIBOR, a hearing panel will award the disputed commission based on a determination of procuring cause.

Mediation
Mediation is offered to assist members in resolving commission disputes. Mediation is voluntary and a decision is not imposed upon the parties. Rather, it provides the forum for members to work together toward a mutually agreeable decision.