Code of Ethics
In joining an Association of REALTORS®, REALTORS® signify their intention to abide by the National Association of REALTORS® Code of Ethics and thereby enhance the public and professional image of themselves and all other REALTORS®.
Adherence to the Code is the first great bond between REALTORS® locally and throughout the country, and is an obligation voluntarily accepted by them to ensure high standards of professional conduct to serve the interests of their clients and customers.
The Greater Harrisburg Association of REALTORS® is firmly committed to the comprehensive education of REALTORS® and the public about the Code of Ethics and the protection it affords, and to vigorous, fair and uniform enforcement when complaints are brought against members. Anyone, whether a member of the public or another REALTOR®, may file a complaint if it is believed that the REALTOR’S® actions or lack of action may have violated the Code.
In general, a complaint must be filed within 180 days of the alleged offense. All complaints must be made in writing, using the Ethics Complaint Form. If the REALTOR® is a member of GHAR, then the complaint should be submitted to GHAR’s Professional Standards Administrator using the forms below.
If the complaint is against a REALTOR® member of another local association, the complaint should be directed to either that association’s Professional Standards Administrator, or to PAR. PAR is responsible for enforcing the Code of Ethics for 30 local boards/associations as part of the Statewide Professional Standards Cooperative. To access the list of associations that are part of the Statewide Cooperative, or to file a complaint through PAR, visit the PAR website.
Code of Ethics & Professional Standard Policy changes
Several changes to the National Association of REALTORS® Professional Standards rules were approved by the NAR Board of Directors on November 13, 2020. These changes went into effect immediately upon passage. The centerpiece of these changes is the addition of a new Standard of Practice 10-5.
“Realtors® must not use harassing speech, hate speech, epithets or slurs based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, sexual orientation or gender identity.”
NAR has provided an in-depth review of the changes, including a detailed FAQ and additional supporting materials.