A professional is someone who can do his best work when he doesn’t feel like it.
~Alistair Cooke, British-born American journalist and broadcaster
Certain talents, qualities, and personal traits are necessary for building a successful real estate career. Successful registrants possess these skills, acquired through education and experience.
One such skill is the ability to act professionally with colleagues, members of the public (particularly clients and customers), and the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO). Because real estate is a regulated profession, as a member of a regulated profession, you are expected to behave as a professional. But what does it mean to be a ‘professional’?
Being a professional means…
Complying with all relevant legislation and regulations
Your primary duty as a member of a regulated profession is to comply with all relevant legislation and regulations, most notably the Real Estate and Business Brokers Act, 2002, and Regulations, including the Code of Ethics.
The Code of Ethics ensures the public interest is protected by detailing obligations owed to members of the public (in particular, buyers and sellers), to colleagues, and to the profession. Failure to comply with the Code (and other applicable legislation) may lead to an act of professional misconduct.
Providing knowledgeable and competent services
Real estate is exciting and dynamic; it is also demanding and complex. Consumers will turn to you for information and advice on one of the most important decisions of their lives – buying or selling a home. You must provide them with conscientious and ethical services and only in those areas in which you are knowledgeable and competent. Always strive for excellence in all aspects of your work.
Following the ‘Golden Rule’
In principle, the rule is quite simple – treat others as you would want to be treated. In other words, treat everyone (i.e., every person you deal with in the course of a trade in real estate) fairly, honestly, and with integrity. Recognize and accept cultural differences.
The ‘Golden Rule’ also applies to colleagues. You must speak respectfully about other salespersons and work collaboratively with them. For example, you must respect the relationship between buyers/sellers and their chosen real estate representatives, and you cannot communicate with them unless they have consented in writing.
Putting client needs first
Your success as a broker/salesperson relies on your ability to gain the trust and respect of clients. You do this by ensuring they understand the services you will be providing, and provide these services to the best of your abilities. You also do this by putting clients’ needs first.
Never persuade or tell your clients what to do or make decisions for them.
Putting your best foot forward
You have only one opportunity to make a good first impression. When meeting with any individual in the course of doing your job, dress appropriately, and be neat and clean in your personal appearance.
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