FAQs - Topsail Island Area Tax Values

PREAMBLE…

Under all is the land. Upon its wise utilization and widely allocated ownership depend the survival and growth of free institutions and of our civilization. The REALTORS® free institutions and of our civilization. The REALTORS® should recognize that the interests of the nation and its citizens require the highest and best use of the land and the widest distribution of land ownership. They require the creation of adequate housing, the building of functioning cities, the development of productive industries and farms, and the preservation of a healthful environment.

Such interests impose obligations beyond those of ordinary commerce. They impose grave social responsibility and a patriotic duty to which REALTORS® should dedicate themselves, and for which they should be diligent in preparing themselves. REALTORS® therefore, are zealous to maintain and improve the standards of their calling and share with their fellow REALTORS® a common responsibility for its integrity and honor. The term REALTOR® has come to connote competency, fairness, and high integrity resulting from adherence to a lofty ideal of moral conduct in business relations. No inducement of profit and no instruction from clients can every justify departure from this ideal.

In the interpretation of this obligation, REALTORS® can take no safer guide than that which has been handed down through the centuries, embodied in the Golden Rule, "Whatsoever ye would that others should do to you, do ye even so to them."

Accepting this standard as their own, REALTORS® pledge to observe its spirit in all of their activities and to conduct their business in accordance with the tenets set forth:

1. Be informed and contribute responsibly to public affairs.
2. Be informed to advise your clients properly.
3. Eliminate practices that damage or discredit the profession.
4. Urge the exclusive listing of property
5. Share your experience and expertise with other REALTORS®.
6. Seek no unfair advantage of other REALTORS®.
7. Protect your client’s interests but be fair to all parties.
8. Accept compensation form only one party unless disclosed to all parties.
9. Avoid exaggeration, misrepresentation, and concealment of pertinent facts.
10. Provide equal service to all clients and customers.
11. Provide competent service in your field of endeavor.
12. Disclose present or contemplated interest in any property to all parties.
13. When buying or selling, make your position or interest known.
14. Arbitrate disputes with other REALTORS®.
15. Participate in enforcement of the Code.
16. Avoid side deals without your client’s consent.
17. Avoid the unauthorized practice of law.
18. Place entrusted funds in a special account.
19. Present a true picture in your advertising.
20. Ensure that transactional details are in writing.
21. Respect the agency of other REALTORS®.
22. Cooperate with other real estate professionals to promote your client’s interests.
23. Refrain from public disparagement.

For the full text of REALTORS® Code of Ethics