File A Complaint

The term REALTOR® identifies real estate agents who are members of the National Association of REALTORS® and who have agreed to subscribe to a strict Code of Ethics. The local REALTOR® Association is responsible for enforcing the Code of Ethics among its members.

The REALTOR® Association of Sarasota and Manatee provides enforcement of the Code of Ethics to members and consumers, and arbitrates commission disputes. Information is provided below.

Before You File a Complaint

We suggest you review the FAQs. Please contact our Professional Standards Administrator at standards@myrasm.com or by phone at (941) 952-3402 for more information and assistance.

Ombudsman Program

If your dispute requires prompt assistance, we offer an ombudsman program. This informal mediation process is conducted by a trained volunteer REALTOR® appointed to resolve disputes. Ombudsmen are trained to use constructive communication and to advocate for consensus. To request an ombudsman and learn more about the program, click HERE.

Mediation Services

RASM will offer mediation services to the complainant and if agreed, we will then contact the respondent to ascertain their willingness to mediate the issue. If mediation is not desirable, the complaint is reviewed at the next regularly scheduled Grievance Committee meeting. If deemed arbitrable, mediation will once again be offered to both parties. NOTE: Both parties must agree to mediate. If mediation is not desirable, the Respondent will then be sent a copy of the Arbitration complaint and will have 15 days to respond. To request mediation, contact standards@myrasm.com.

Ethics Complaint Form

An Ethics Complaint may be submitted by clicking HERE.

Arbitration Form

Arbitration is a means of resolving a monetary dispute arising out of a real estate transaction that the parties have been unable to solve themselves. An arbitration request is a simple notice by a member of a disagreement with another member, usually a commission dispute. Sometimes arbitration concerns a dispute between a member of the public and an Association member. Arbitration does not award damages. For more information about arbitration, click HERE.