Professional Standards
Doing Business the Right Way
Start Here
Is This About Ethics, or Licensing?
These two get mixed up constantly, and they go to two completely different places.
It's About Ethics
If your concern is about a REALTOR®'s professional conduct under the Code of Ethics, misrepresentation, unfair treatment, or a violation of professional standards, that's handled locally by NMAR.
It's About Licensing
If your concern is about whether someone is legally licensed to practice, or a violation of state licensing law, that's handled by the Montana Board of Realty Regulation, not NMAR.
The Foundation
The REALTOR® Code of Ethics
The Code of Ethics is a detailed document that spells out the ethical standards and professional responsibilities of every REALTOR®. These responsibilities include duties to clients, to the public, and to other industry professionals. It's the Code of Ethics that sets REALTORS® apart from real estate agents who aren't held to this higher standard.
The Code consists of seventeen Articles, each explained and illustrated through accompanying Standards of Practice and case interpretations.
Our Services
Three Ways We Help Resolve Disputes
Ombuds Program
Informal telephone mediation, the fastest option. An Ombuds can answer general questions about real estate practices, transaction details, and ethical or enforcement issues, and helps parties find solutions before anything becomes formal.
Ethics Complaints
If you believe a REALTOR® violated one or more Articles of the Code of Ethics, you have the right to file a formal complaint. It's reviewed by the Grievance Committee, then a hearing panel if it moves forward.
Arbitration
Resolves disputes, generally involving commissions and compensation, between brokers. A non-principal REALTOR® can't file a request, but may be joined and participate.
Before You File
Five Things to Know First
Many disputes come down to miscommunication. Before filing, talk to the real estate professional or their principal broker, it often resolves things faster than a formal complaint.
If You Do File
What Happens During a Complaint
Here's the full process, start to finish, so there are no surprises.
Questions about filing, or which option is right for your situation? Contact Jeri Moon, NMAR's Association Executive and Professional Standards Administrator, at jmoon@nmar.com or (406) 752-4313 ext. 4.