When does a REALTOR® have proper authority to enter a listed property?

Unauthorized access complaints are a top complaint each year through the Illinois REALTORS®’ Ethics Citation Program and come with an expensive “ticket.” Just because a property is listed, lockbox entry is not permitted for anyone with a code to use 24/7. Entry into properties (even listed ones) that happen on conditions other than those established by the owners and sellers constitute unauthorized access. Not only could transgressions like these be violations of the REALTOR® Code of Ethics, but they also could be crimes should the owners press charges.

Are you following advertising rules?

Help avoid ethical pitfalls in the practice of real estate with these helpful advertising guidelines and tips from the professional standards program.

As you work on your advertising plan, use the Illinois REALTORS® Advertising Checklist to make sure you are following the rules.

One of the top questions Illinois REALTORS® gets is about how to advertise in a way that meets state and REALTOR® Code of Ethics guidelines. Illinois REALTORS® ombudsman program has a guide you can share with other REALTORS® which tells what to DO and NOT TO DO. Learn about these 21 things in advertising!

Learn more about REALTOR® professional standards

Beyond ethics, an important aspect of being professional is learning the business practices or “courtesies” that are essential to a smooth transaction and to building good relationships with clients and fellow REALTORS®. This guide covers guidelines to help both new and veteran REALTORS® in their dealings with each other and the public—building a reputation for professional behavior that will enhance your standing and relationships with colleagues and clients.

Professional standards videos

Learn more about specific professional standards issues with the Illinois REALTORS® video series on the topic. REALTOR® and trainer Diane Disbrow highlights the differences between arbitration and mediation;  and Illinois REALTORS® Matt Difanis explains the ins and outs of Article 12 compliance with social media.