When you’re looking for help buying or selling property, it’s important to remember that the terms “real estate agent” and “REALTORŪ” are not one and the same. REALTORSŪ can provide an added level of service, and to be a REALTORŪ you must be a member of the National Association of REALTORSŪ (NAR), a non-profit trade organization that promotes real estate information, education and professional standards. The National Association of REALTORSŪ also has earned a strong reputation for actively championing private property rights and working to make home ownership affordable and accessible. NAR members adhere to a strict code of ethics founded on the principles of providing fair and honest service to all consumers. REALTORŪ business practices are monitored at local board levels. Arbitration and disciplinary systems are in place to address complaints from the public or board members. This local monitoring keeps REALTORSŪ directly accountable to the individual consumers they serve, and, therefore, the consumer is more likely to find better service and accountability by using a REALTORŪ.