Dispute Resolution (Ethics Complaint)
CCAR members members follow the REALTOR® Code of Ethics, and have a commitment to work with REALTORS® and their clients to resolve disputes. Ethics help better the industry for all.
Two types of resolution
Consumer/REALTOR Dispute Resolution
-Ombudsmen -
Real estate transactions can be complex. For members of the public, it helps to have someone knowledgeable about real estate practices to answer basic questions or work to resolve minor disputes.
Sometimes a member is unable to resolve a dispute with another member. Illinois REALTORS® has a team of Ombudsmen who work with consumers and REALTORS® to resolve disputes.
How it works: Any member of the public or an association member who has a question about or dispute with a REALTOR® can get assistance. The case will be assigned to a specially trained Ombudsman who will work with a complainant to resolve the issue.
Since it was founded in 2013, the program has seen nearly three-fifths of complaints handled to the satisfaction of all parties involved.
The program does not offer legal advice, but Illinois REALTORS® representatives can offer guidance on next steps to take, resources for information and can act as an intermediary in some disputes. The program has been able to clean up numerous misunderstandings and/or communication issues since its inception.
https://www.illinoisrealtors.org/ethics/disputes/
Ethics Citation Program
- Call Illinois REALTORS®. The Ethics Citation Hotline can be reached at 217-529-2600 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. (Closed major holidays)
https://www.illinoisrealtors.org/ethics/ethics-citation-program/
Professional Standards (Grievance Committee) - This committee investigates allegations of unethical conduct and request for Arbitration in accordance with the policies and procedures of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) Code of Ethics and Arbitration Manual.
The actions and determinations of the Professional Standards (Grievance Committee) will be final actions, subject to appeal rights. Other general actions and recommendations by the Committee will be forwarded to the Executive Committee for review and consideration before being presented to the Board of Directors.