Professional Standards
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. Please contact our Professional Standards Administrator at standards@myrasm.com or by phone at (941) 952-3402 for more information and assistance.
Do You Have a Complaint Concerning a REALTOR®?
The first thing that must be determined in processing a complaint with RASM is whether the real estate agent involved is a REALTOR® and a member of RASM, or receives MLS through RASM. Not all real estate agents are REALTORS®. The term REALTOR® identifies 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.
If you need legal assistance, the Florida REALTORS® Legal Hotline is a free benefit available to all members. Call: 407.438.1409 | Hours: 9 a.m. – 4:45 p.m., Monday through Friday
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. To request mediation, contact standards@myrasm.com
Ethics
An Ethics Complaint may be filed against a RASM member if you believe s/he has violated the NAR Code of Ethics. Take time to review the background, process and what to expect once you have filed a complaint by reviewing these FAQs. Click HERE to submit an Ethics Complaint.
Arbitration
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.
Lockbox System Rules
Lockbox Rules & Regulations (PDF)
To ensure the integrity and security of the system for the benefit of clients, customers and real estate professionals, RASM members must obey Lockbox Rules & Regulations. Effective June 2018.
Lockbox Complaint Form (PDF)
If you have reason to believe an agent has violated these lockbox rules, please complete and submit this form.
Lockbox Self-Reporting Document (PDF)
The Lockbox Service Rules require a member who has been arrested to report such event to the Association for the Board to determine in its sole opinion if the charge involves a crime that relates to the real estate business or puts clients, customers, other real estate professionals or property at risk.
