Legal FAQs

REALTOR Ethics and Arbitration (commission dispute) Hearings in a Nutshell The Chair of the Hearing Panel of REALTORS makes opening remarks. Both sides make opening statements. Complainant produces evidence (testimony, witnesses, documents, video) to prove their case by "clear, strong, convincing" (ethics case standard) or "preponderance" (arbitration money standard). Other side tries to poke holes… Continue Reading Summary of Ethics and Arbitration Hearings

NAR Ten Minute Legal Update Video Misrepresentation lawsuits are #1 risk management issue. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zwzsIr12f2A Posted by : Byron King

NAR Professional Standards Videos http://www.realtor.org//code-of-ethics/code-of-ethics-pathways-to-professionalism-video-series Posted by : Byron King

Hour Long REALTOR Overview of Mediation https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yjdp21Z6ObI Posted by : Byron King

NAR Recommended Handling of Multiple Offers NAR Code of Ethics and Arbitration Manual Appendix IX to Part Four Presenting and Negotiating Multiple Offers “When representing a buyer, seller, landlord, tenant, or other client as an agent, REALTORS® pledge themselves to protect and promote the interests of their clients. This obligation to the client’s interests is… Continue Reading Multiple Offers

File License Law Complaints Online/Anonymously http://www.llr.state.sc.us/pol/rec/index.asp?file=complaint.htm Posted by : Byron King

NAR Professional Standards Forms Library http://www.realtor.org/code-of-ethics-and-arbitration-manual/forms Posted by : Byron King

To see RESPA enforcement actions by the federal Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB): https://www.consumerfinance.gov/policy-compliance/enforcement/actions/ Posted by : Byron King

Disclosing surveillance Security technology is a beneficial tool for owners and REALTORS®. However, buyer agents should let buyers know that sellers may have security systems on premises that might record their statements. Don't tip your hand for contract negotiations by making statements about how much you like the property, your motivation for buying, your top… Continue Reading Surveillance

Water quality and real estate REALTORS® should recommend that buyers obtain all inspections available including having their public or private water quality tested. The EPA and SC DHEC regulate water quality. Posted by : Byron King