The Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act prohibits referral kickbacks for lenders and settlement services. Paying fair market value for real services is allowed.
The Code of Ethics has adapted with the real estate industry for over 100 years. Updates to the Code of Ethics and Arbitration Manual go into effect at the beginning of each year. Here’s what’s new in 2026.
Members often ask about the ethical boundaries regarding interference with another brokerage’s exclusive representation. The answer is found in Article 16’s Standards of Practice.
Focusing on buyers by behavior and interests, rather than age, gender or family status, helps agents reach new consumers while avoiding legal risks.
The updated compensation form, released in January, replaces two prior agreements and updates how sellers and brokers offer payment in residential transactions.
A new report shows younger generations will inherit trillions in property, driving family buying strategies, more estate sales and shifts in luxury market supply.
Social platforms reward useful, local content. Agents who use video, planning and engagement can attract buyers and sellers organically and grow leads consistently.
New prediction markets let users trade on where home prices are headed, sparking debate over whether crowd sentiment can meaningfully inform housing decisions.
Property managers who fail to comply with updated lead paint rules risk lawsuits, project shutdowns, insurance denial and fines up to $40,000 per violation.
Builder incentives and smaller homes are bringing new-home prices closer to resales, creating a rare buying window in some markets.
