Ethical practices
All real estate agents and brokers must be licensed by the Texas Real Estate Commission to assist consumers with buying and selling property. However, only those licensed agents and brokers who choose to become REALTOR^®s commit themselves to a higher standard of professional conduct known as the REALTOR^®Code of Ethics. The code consists of 17 articles that outline a REALTOR^®’s obligations to clients, the public and other REALTORS^®. Each article is broken down into several standards of practice that outline the conduct expected of a REALTOR^®.

The Code of Ethics is more than a list of goals. It is actually enforced through the REALTOR^®organization to ensure the interests of clients, the public and other REALTORS^®are protected. As a matter of fact, anyone can charge a REALTOR^®with violating the Code of Ethics, and procedures are in place to determine if the code has indeed been broken. If the REALTOR^®is found to have violated the code, punishments range from mandatory education to hefty fines and sometimes even suspension of membership in the organization.

Head of the class
Another distinguishing feature of REALTORS^®is how much value is placed on education. You may have seen a business card or Web page and noticed a string of letters, such as GRI, CRS or ABR, after a San Antonio REALTOR^®’s name. Those letters represent professional designations offered through the REALTOR^®organization or affiliated institutions.

As a buyer or seller, you can benefit from a San Antonio REALTOR^®’s in-depth industry knowledge gained from earning designations. Each designation represents a different type of expertise such as buyer representation, affordable housing, property management and others.

Working together for Texas
Having a San Antonio REALTOR^®represent you in a real estate transaction is to your advantage. But even if you aren’t currently buying or selling property, you also benefit from the actions of San Antonio REALTORS^®on a much larger scale. San Antonio REALTORS^®work together to promote the interests of homebuyers and property owners – and nowhere is this more evident than at the state Capitol.

When the 82nd Texas Legislature concluded in 2011, REALTORS^®from across the state counted several successes on behalf of private-property rights and the interests of Texashomeowners. Bills that give homeowners association members more rights became law during the session. A law was passed that increases restrictions on the government’s use of eminent domain. And legislation prohibiting private transfer fees and requiring better disclosure also became law this session.

A difference that matters
So, San Antonio REALTORS^®are more than just real estate agents and brokers. They are professionals who abide by a strict ethical code, are obliged to treat all parties fairly, pursue education beyond legal requirements, and work for you at the state Capitol.  I hope you’ll consider hiring a San Antonio REALTOR^®for your next real estate transaction. It’s a difference that matters – for many reasons.

To learn more about buying, selling or leasing real estate in San Antonio, I invite you to visit the property search section of SABOR.com.